When Dr Judith Wake of CQU Mackay started teaching Environmental Science in Mackay there were more students than job opportunities.

Now she receives calls regularly asking for students to take on work in Mackay and she is unable to suggest enough students and graduates to meet the demand.

Environmental scientists, like most professionals associated with mining booms and development, are in short supply and Dr Wake is urging people to consider a career in the discipline.

"It's one of the most meaningful career paths you can venture down and the variety and scope is just endless," said Dr Wake

According to Dr Wake, Mackay is crying out for more environmental scientists and the call comes from all of Mackay's main industries: mining, sugar and coastal development. 

Further to this, there has been an increased need to monitor and assess environmental impacts across all fields and the result is a shortage of environmental scientists across all of Australia.

"Graduates can work in environmental consultancy companies, local and state government, mining companies and non-government organisations.  The work is hands-on, you're out in the field, not stuck in an office all day and at the end of the day you know you have contributed to looking after the environment," said Dr Wake.

At CQU Mackay, students begin field work in their first year, monitoring biodiversity, water quality and soil properties.

Those interested in a career in Environmental Science are urged to call Dr Wake for further information on 4940 7850 or go to http://www.cqu.edu.au/