Class of 2017 Geology Major Graduate
Sean Stevenson graduated from Rutgers University in 2017 with a degree in Geological Sciences. Since earning his bachelor's degree, he has built a dynamic career that has taken him across the United States, working in geotechnical consulting, natural resource management, mineral exploration, and mining geology. Today, Sean serves as a Drilling Geologist for Freeport-McMoRan at the Climax Mine, the largest molybdenum-producing operation in the United States, while simultaneously pursuing a Master of Science in Geology at the Colorado School of Mines, with an anticipated graduation date of 2028.
Following graduation from Rutgers, Sean began his professional career at a geotechnical consulting firm serving projects throughout New Jersey and New York. During his three years in the consulting industry, he developed a strong foundation in applied geology and engineering-related projects, gaining valuable field and technical experience that would serve him throughout his career.
Sean's next opportunity led him to Florida, where he joined Blue Triton Brands (now Primo Water) as Natural Resource Manager for the Zephyrhills spring water operation. In this role, he managed approximately 500 million gallons of water resources for the company's spring water division. His responsibilities included overseeing sustainable water management practices and ensuring the long-term stewardship of critical groundwater resources.
Building on his growing interest in economic geology and resource exploration, Sean later moved to Alaska to become an Exploration Geologist with Hecla Mining at Greens Creek, the largest silver mine in the United States. Working in one of North America's premier mining districts provided the opportunity to contribute to exploration programs focused on expanding mineral resources while operating in a remote and geologically complex setting.
After two years in Alaska, Sean accepted a position with Freeport-McMoRan in Colorado as a Drilling Geologist at the Climax Mine. In this role, he supports
drilling programs and geological investigations that help advance one of the nation's most important mining operations. His work involves integrating geological data, supporting resource evaluation efforts, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams focused on responsible resource development.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Sean has become an active leader within the geological and mining community. One of his proudest achievements has been serving as Chair of the Colorado Section of the Society for Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration (SME). Through this leadership role, he helps foster professional development opportunities and strengthen connections within the mining industry. Sean is also passionate about mentoring young geologists and engineers entering the profession, helping the next generation navigate the challenges and opportunities of careers in the earth sciences.
Favorite Rutgers Memory
Some of Sean's favorite memories at Rutgers stem from the experiences that helped shape his identity as a geologist. The Field Methods course in upstate New York was particularly impactful, providing the opportunity to conduct field mapping and engage in detailed discussions about the remarkable geology of the northeastern United States.
"Getting a chance to do some field mapping and deep dive into some discussions about the amazing rocks that we can find in the Northeast really helped solidify the path for me to become a geologist."
Sean also cites Historical Geology as his favorite course at Rutgers because it brought together many of the concepts he encountered throughout the geology curriculum and emphasized the significance of geologic time in understanding Earth's history.
"Historical Geology helped put context to all of the great classes we had at Rutgers, as well as build that connection to geological time and how important it is to understand that."
Together, these classroom and field experiences provided the scientific foundation, field skills, and critical thinking abilities that prepared Sean for a career spanning multiple sectors of the geosciences. From geotechnical consulting in the Northeast to groundwater management in Florida, mineral exploration in Alaska, and mining operations in Colorado, the education and experiences he gained at Rutgers laid the groundwork for a diverse and successful career.