Engineering Geologist Shares Real-World Insight With Middle School Science Students

Middle School science students welcomed this week a special guest speaker, Colby Matthews, a professional engineering geologist and St. Margaret’s parent, for an interactive presentation on the science of geology and real-world applications of the field.

Mr. Matthews is a Certified Engineering Geologist (CEG), a specialized discipline within geology that requires additional certification beyond the standard qualifications needed to practice as a geologist. There are only approximately 1,300 Certified Engineering Geologists in California.

He introduced grade 6 students to the work of an engineering geologist, explaining how geological knowledge is used to evaluate landforms and support safe construction and infrastructure projects. His presentation connected directly to multiple topics studied throughout the year in Earth Science, helping students see how classroom concepts translate into professional practice.

Mr. Matthews brought in more than 60 pounds of rock samples collected from a variety of geological settings, along with specialized field tools used by geologists. Middle School students examined specimens up close and observed several demonstrations illustrating how geologists analyze rock types, formations, and environmental conditions.

According to Ashley Baffa, Middle School science teacher, the visit provided a meaningful bridge between academic content and real-world application, allowing Middle School students to engage with science as practicing geologists do. The interactive format encouraged curiosity and questions, giving students a clearer understanding of how Earth science is used beyond the classroom.