Sacramento Engineer Uses Technology To Keep California Safe

Christy Jones, Lead Water Manager at United States Army Corps of Engineers, is concerned about public safety and chose to pursue a career in flood control. "The corps has a mission of reducing flood risks and I wanted to be part of that and help people."

"I oversee the flood control operations of 49 reservoirs in California, Utah and Colorado. I do watershed projects and will get data as it is received daily to make certain we are maintaining the correct inflow and outflow to make the correct decisions for operations," she explained. A watershed is the area of land where all of the water that is under it or drains off of it goes into the same place.

Jones first obtained her Bachelor of Science in civil and environmental engineering from Cornell University. "I decided to get an advanced degree eight years into my profession," she explained. "It was eye-opening for me. I learned so much more than just working in my job. There was a bigger picture I was missing." She completed her master's degree in civil and environmental engineering from the University of California, Davis.

Technology is important to Jones to collect the data from gauges out in the field in multiple ways. A geostationary satellite system, operated by the United States National Environmental Satellite, Data and Information Service, is used. According to Jones, three sources of technology are used to receive and compile data. "We then use Microsoft Excel and Hydrologic Engineering Center software to help us make our decisions about where we are going to be releasing during flood season." She received additional training from the center to use its software, which offers classes annually.

Jones would advise everyone to pursue an advanced degree, even if presently working. "Go back to school and learn about your field of interest in an academic setting." Technology is a necessary component of what she does and those educated in technology are a vital part of her profession.

Debbie Hall is practically a Las Vegas native (34 years and counting) and loves experiencing everything in Southern Nevada from the Las Vegas Strip to the surrounding mountains and Lake Mead. She also teaches at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas and loves sharing her knowledge. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.