Our Volunteers

Darcie Greggs - Brings
Rock Solid Perspectives
To APEGGA Committees

By Marissa Lee

More than 300 volunteers take time out of their busy schedules to serve on APEGGA's committees and task forces. One such dedicated person is Darcie Greggs, P.Geol., who was educated in Ontario at Queens University and the University of Toronto. She is a consulting geologist for her company, Hillspring Consulting Ltd., in Calgary. Her first volunteer stint for APEGGA was in 1994 with the CSEG/CSPG/APEGGA Liaison Committee. Ms. Greggs has also been a member, and is currently chair, of the Enforcement Review Committee.

Why did you join APEGGA?

Aside from the great car rental benefits, I wanted professional certification. It's like being a lawyer or accountant.

As a geologist, how do you contribute to APEGGA?

Geoscientists tend to work in a different atmosphere than engineers. It is another way of looking at the earth. Engineers handle hard data while the work of geoscientists is more interpretive. I bring this perspective to the table, which I think complements the engineering side of things.

Why do you volunteer with APEGGA?

I volunteer because I believe it is a professional responsibility. APEGGA is an association that should govern itself. If you are a professional within this system, it is important to contribute, otherwise bureaucrats will make decisions for you. I also volunteer because geoscientists are underrepresented.

What value do you get from being an APEGGA volunteer?

I enjoy working with professionals from a diverse background. I have learned about conducting meetings, making decisions and working through agendas efficiently and expediently. As the chair of the Enforcement Review Committee (ERC), I believe it is important for each member to express opinions so we arrive at a consensus once the discussion has concluded. I also value volunteer work with the Student Outreach program. Things have changed since I was an undergraduate. The views of students are more global than ever. They ask excellent questions and keep you on your toes.

How is the Enforcement Review Committee making a difference in the professions?

The Enforcement Review Committee helps protect the public from unlicensed practitioners. Many are unqualified and deliberately mislead the public by calling themselves professionals. It is important to note that this committee handles unlicensed individuals and companies while the discipline committee deals with licensed professionals and Permit-holders.

What are your other hobbies and activities?

Right now, I'm finishing my master's degree at the University of Calgary in sedimentology and basement tectonism. My family keeps me busy - I'm married with two young children. We like hiking. And, there is the ongoing renovation of the house.

Have you received an award or special recognition that is important to you?

I'm proud of the volunteer service awards I received from the Canadian Society of Petroleum Geologists and APEGGA.

Is there a person who has been helpful in your development as a professional?

My thesis supervisor helps me develop technically. The directors and staff of APEGGA help me fulfil my mandate as an APEGGA volunteer. I'm impressed with their level of professionalism and how willing they are to explain how the system works to new people. I have received a lot of support from Dave Todd, P.Eng., Director Registration and Compliance, and Jo-Ann Marshall, Compliance Coordinator.

Can you recall a particularly memorable volunteer experience?

I was presenting to an elementary class and amazed at the kids' interest in geology. They were particularly fascinated by the concept of time, and awed by the range of activities geologists do and how important it is in our daily lives.

What is your favourite rock?

My favourite rock is actually a non-rock or an unconformity. It is located in Black Hills in South Dakota. The Cambrian rests on ancient rocks where there is a time gap of 1.4 billion years. You can literally put your finger on it.

Who is your favourite rock star?

I don't have one. But, I definitely hit a saturation point with the Backstreet Boys by the end of summer vacation.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?

I would love to see the next active explosive volcano in person.