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Raina Harrell – Class of ’18

Raina Harrell graduated in 2018 with a degree in Sustainable Materials & Technology. We reached out to see what she’s been up to!

What was your favorite class and/or memory at NC State?

One of my favorite classes was Dr. Peszlen’s course where we examined and identified different wood species under the microscope. It was fascinating to see the ways microscopic characteristics influenced the overall physical characteristics of the wood.

How did you choose your major and what attracted you to the program at NC State?

The description of the SMT program on the NC State website drew me to apply to the school. I wanted to study how to make innovative materials and goods while improving environmental health; SMT offered exactly that.

Did you complete any hands-on experiences like internships, study abroad, co-ops or undergraduate research?

The summer after my junior year I interned with the NC Building Performance Association (NCBPA). NCBPA is a Raleigh-based nonprofit trade association that promotes energy efficiency in the building industry and supports tradespeople across the state. They offer building efficiency resources for home and business owners, as well as quality assurance for home energy raters. 

What does sustainability mean to you? And why is it important to study renewable materials?

Sustainability means being aware of the impact your consumption has on environmental and human health and making decisions to lessen your carbon footprint. 

We have access to post industrial and post consumer materials that were unavailable to previous generations. If we study how to use them efficiently we can create profitable new markets while decreasing consumption of non-renewable materials.

What is your current company, location, and position?

Currently I work at CaraGreen in Raleigh as the Southeast Territory Sales Manager. CaraGreen is a distributor of healthy, sustainable building materials. We represent a dozen or so product lines, all of which have some kind of sustainable story. From countertop material made of recycled paper and petroleum-free resin, to acoustical products made of 70% recycled PET. 

What do you enjoy most about your job?

My favorite part of this job is working with architects and designers across the Southeast; I travel throughout VA, NC, and SC educating designers about various aspects of sustainable design and sharing our products with them.

What is your biggest accomplishment in your career?

My biggest accomplishment thus far in my career is finding employment at a place directly related to my undergraduate degree. First I studied sustainable materials and now I get to bring them into the marketplace. Working for a company with a strong moral compass in a role I enjoy is a great accomplishment. 

What is your advice for current SMT students?

My advice for current SMT students is to take advantage of all the opportunities they can while at NC State, whether that’s submitting projects to the Enrichment Fund, or renting a tent and supplies from Carmichael and going on a weekend camping trip with your friends.