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Sustainability

Sustainability Career Development Program

Explore and build a career in sustainability, no matter your major or background.

The NC State Sustainability Career Development Program provides students with a flexible, self-directed pathway to professional growth. This unique initiative allows participants to customize their career development to align with their personal interests and long-term goals.

Whether a student’s passion lies in environmental stewardship, innovation, or leadership, the program offers the resources and experiences necessary to succeed. By participating, NC State students can uncover a wide range of impactful career opportunities in the expanding field of sustainability.

How It Works

The Sustainability Career Development Program is built around four core competencies: 

Knowledge Building

  • Description: Deepening understanding of sustainability concepts and frameworks
  • Involved Skills: Analytical Thinking, Systems Thinking, Ethical Decision-Making, Sustainability and Climate Literacy, Innovation, Interdisciplinary Awareness
  • Example Activity: Workshops, Guest Speaker, Lectures, Make-A-Thon, Conference

Applied Learning

  • Description: Gaining real-world experience and applying knowledge through hands-on engagement
  • Involved Skills: Collaboration, Problem-solving, Project Management, Teamwork, Adaptability
  • Example Activity: Internships, Service Learning, Consulting Projects, Fellowships

Career Development

  • Description: Exploring career pathways and building professional skills for the sustainability field
  • Involved Skills: Networking, Personal Branding, Stakeholder Management, Communication
  • Example Activity: Resume Reviews, Career Panels, Informational Interviews

Leadership Development

  • Description: Practicing personal and organizational leadership with a sustainability lens
  • Involved Skills: Ethical Leadership, Change Management, Stakeholder Engagement, Global Perspective, Growth Mindset
  • Example Activity: Holding Leadership Positions, Speaking at Events, Facilitating Peer Learning, Leadership Retreats

Through active participation in events, volunteering and other designated experiences, students develop core competencies while earning PACKImpact Points to measure their progress. The program features three progressive milestones, offering distinct recognition at each level:

  • Gold Level: Requires 75 PACKImpact Points and earns a graduation cord to wear at commencement in addition to Silver and Bronze-level rewards.
  • Silver Level: Requires 50 PACKImpact Points and earns a graduation pin in addition to Bronze-level reward.
  • Bronze Level: Requires 25 PACKImpact Points and earns a certificate of program completion.

Program Enrollment

Enrollment in the Sustainability Career Development Program can occur at any time by following these simple steps:

  • Step 1
  • Step 2
    • Complete all activities in the “Start Here” section, including
      • Student Information Form
      • Program Orientation
      • PACKImpact Activities Dashboard
    • Be sure to click “Mark as Done” under “Completion” for each to unlock the course and program resources.

Key Features

  • Flexible: Tailored to empower all NC State students to explore opportunities in sustainability
  • Customizable: Using the ‘choose your own adventure’ approach, students can shape their career journey to align with their interests and experiences
  • Designed for Longevity: Can be completed over the course of a student’s academic career at NC State
  • Achievement-Based: Participants accumulate points toward earning the program badge and graduation cord
  • Aligned with University Goals: Supports NC State’s commitment to fostering sustainable leadership and career pathways, and aligns with Goals 1, 3, 4 and 6 of the Wolfpack 2030: Powering the Extraordinary Strategic Plan

Want to learn more?

Watch the program information session to learn more about the program!

Watch the Video

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can participate in the NC State Sustainability Career Development program?

Any currently enrolled NC State student interested in sustainability, regardless of major, can participate. The program is open to both undergraduate and graduate students.

How much time do I need to commit to the program?

The program is designed to be flexible, allowing you to decide how much time you want to invest. Whether you have a few hours a week or more, there are opportunities to engage at your own pace.

Are there any required activities for the Sustainability Career Development Program?

Students are required to attend a minimum of one program event per semester that is specifically focused on the career development competency.

These are not passive lectures; they are valuable opportunities for you to actively connect, engage and share experiences with other students in the program.Topics cover a range of career-focused skills, including how to look for an internship, choosing a career path, personal branding, and networking. 

Can I participate if I don’t have previous experience in sustainability?

Absolutely! This program is designed for students at all levels, whether you’re new to sustainability or already have experience. We provide resources to help you grow, regardless of where you’re starting from.

Can I earn academic credit for participating?

This program is not for academic credit, but some experiences, such as internships or field projects, may qualify for course credit depending on your department’s requirements.

Can an activity count more than once for the program?

Each activity can be counted for points up to two times per semester. For example, volunteering with Zero Waste Wolves can earn points twice in one semester. To continue earning points for volunteering, you must participate in a different volunteer event that given semester.

I am a sophomore, junior, senior, or second-year+ graduate student. Can I earn retroactive credits for past activities?

Yes, you can submit past activities for points. These activities will be reviewed for approval. 

Can I submit activities outside of NC State or not listed on the activities spreadsheet?

Yes, you can submit activities outside of NC State or those not listed on the spreadsheet. Review the points criteria and submit your activity for approval. Eligible activities include internships, research projects, volunteer work, conference and event participation related to sustainability and career development. Activities must align with the program’s learning objectives.

Is there a deadline for submitting activities?

During the first week of April, PACKImpact Points will be evaluated so students can be recognized at the annual Celebration of Sustainability and receive items for commencement.

Ask Us

Have questions about PACKImpact or need guidance on your sustainability career path? Email the University Sustainability Office at [email protected] or schedule a virtual meeting with a program coordinator.

Schedule Here