Matthew Maier

One of the greatest and longest-running opportunities of my career is being invited (and invited back!) to my alma mater, Cal Poly SLO, to speak with Environmental Engineering students at the start of the fall term. Each year, I don’t just talk about what I do. I talk about what I’ve learned — and what I keep learning about myself, leadership, and this field we all love. I tell stories and relate them back to life principles that continue to guide me in my career. Here are the five principles I shared and the stories that accompany them: 💡 1. It’s MY Job to Learn. My first boss told me I needed to learn how to compartmentalize. Back then, as a senior about to graduate college, during a recession, I had many stressors which sat front row in my mind. But that feedback wasn’t personal; it was a nudge toward growth. No one else was going to build that skill for me. Learning is your job. Professors and bosses can guide you, but you have to do the reps. 🔥 2. Growth is Uncomfortable. When I was trying to get my PE, it was brutal. Long hours, hard material, no shortcuts, a full-time job on top of it all. But growth is uncomfortable. It means change, and change rarely feels easy. The good news? Your career is actually pretty long. You’ll have many chances to pivot, learn, and start again. Embrace the tension — it’s how progress feels. 🌎 3. Seek Out Diverse Perspectives. I’ve always believed in the power of bringing people together — in person, in workshops, in moments that spark connection. Hearing different voices and seeing different experiences reminds me every time: diversity is a privilege. Our differences ignite creativity — literally neuroscience even backs it up — your brain releases dopamine (the happy chemical) when it experiences something new. So be intentional: listen deeply, invite others in, and stay inclusive. Your creativity — and your growth — depend on it. 🌟 4. Give Yourself Credit You will make mistakes. You will mess up. But no matter where you on in your life, you’ve already accomplished more than you realize. College, career, life — it’s hard enough. Remember to pause and celebrate your progress. 💚 5. Find Your Support System I struggled in the academic world, especially in my first few years at Cal Poly. I wasn’t ready for college yet. Joining affinity groups like Cal Poly SENVE and Air & Waste Management Association gave me purpose, connection, and belonging. My closest friends are the ones that supported me back then and continue to do so to this day. You don’t have to do it alone. Build your circle — the people who help you process, grow, and show up again. Keeping these guiding principles relevant year after year has been easy. I stick to what I know, stay true to myself, and share what’s real. Thank you to the Cal Poly Environmental Engineering Department for having me back again this year. #CalPolyProud #EnvironmentalEngineering #CareerGrowth #Leadership #ContinuousLearning 

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