In our latest ’60 seconds’ feature, we catch up with Anastasia Fleming, Graduate Environmental Impact Assessment Consultant, who shares insight into how she’s been progressing at Tetra Tech since joining straight from university.
What did you study at uni?
I completed a Geography degree at the University of Chester and I’m due to graduate in November this year with First Class Honours. Geography is a generic subject to study at university, but I believe it gave me a variety of skills and allowed me to understand many social, economic, and environmental aspects of the world that I can now apply at Tetra Tech as an 
EIA consultant.
What brought you to Tetra Tech?
I was attracted to the company because it is a medium-size company, yet very multidisciplinary with a variety of technical teams always happy to help. Being an EIA consultant means that I am always in contact with other technical teams and knowing that I can rely on my colleagues is essential. Additionally, I really liked the company’s comforting atmosphere and flexible working hours, two factors you really need when you are about to drastically change your life from being a student to a full-time employee.
How long have you been working as a Graduate EIA Consultant?
I joined Tetra Tech two weeks after finishing my last piece of coursework, so I have been here since June 2018. From the very first day here, I received a warm welcome from all the colleagues, so it certainly doesn’t feel like I have been here for only four months.
Tell us more about some of the notable projects you’ve been involved with?
Considering I have only been with Tetra Tech for four months, I have already been involved in a variety of projects, courtesy of my brilliant team! One key project that stands out for me is the Lowca Wind Farm located in Cumbria. This project required the production of a detailed screening report for the extension of life of the existing development, emphasising the benefits of its continuation.
Tell us more about your interests outside of work that go hand-in-hand with your role?
Outside of work, I remain very keen on researching. As I have received a first-class grade in my dissertation study last year, I remain very proud of my work and aim to share this with many other academics and researchers. I have recently attended the International Sustainable Production and Consumption conference in Manchester, hosted by the Institute of Chemical Engineers. This event was of a very high standard, hence why I was very proud to find that my research was accepted for the presentation. On the day, I met many other delegates from other large national and international universities and research centres, so I can certainly say I gained a lot more knowledge and understanding of sustainable development, which is very close to my heart.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years, aspirations for the future?
I haven’t decided what area I want to specialise in just yet, but I can definitely say I enjoy working within the EIA team. My role requires a great knowledge and understanding of all technical environmental aspects, and of sustainable and commercial business and national policies in general. There is a lot to learn, so I am sure I will still be excited about being an EIA consultant in 10 years’ time.