Alumni Spotlight: Emma Gandy – Class of ’24

Emma Gandy, a May 2024 graduate of the Forest Biomaterials Department, recently shared her experience transitioning into the workforce. After earning her bachelor’s degree in Sustainable Materials and Technology, she joined Georgia-Pacific’s Innovation Institute as a Material Testing Engineer. In this role, Emma oversees the testing of consumer products by managing project scope, defining test objectives, and ensuring proper use of equipment and adherence to timelines. She collaborates closely with customers and dedicates much of her time to hands-on work in the laboratory.

During her time at NC State, Emma was an officer and co-founder of the Sustainable Materials & Technology Student Association (SMTSA). She was also involved with the National Parks Club, CNR Ambassadors, and participated in Undergraduate Research in the Department of Forest Biomaterials.

We caught up with Emma to explore how her time at the College of Natural Resources equipped her for success in her career. Read the full Q&A below.

What do you like about your current position?

I love the autonomy in my work and the freedom to choose which projects and tasks to prioritize. This flexibility has really helped me establish a productive rhythm throughout the day. I’m also fortunate to be part of an all-female team, with lots of opportunities for mentorship in STEM fields. It’s especially rewarding to know that the work we do makes a difference, helping our customers improve their products.

Why did you choose to major in Sustainable Materials and Technology?

I was drawn to sustainability because of my strong interest in the field and the hands-on approach of the program. It’s a major you can truly customize to match your specific interests, with countless pathways to explore. The community may be small, but it’s filled with dedicated and knowledgeable professors who are deeply involved. I also loved the people I met and made amazing friends among my classmates. Everyone is supportive and genuinely wants to see each other succeed! I am so grateful for the people I met and interacted with in this program.

What advice do you have for current NC State students?

Get involved with at least two clubs—one professional and one just for fun! Clubs are an excellent way to build lasting friendships and connections. Joining a fun, non-academic club allows you to unwind and pursue personal interests, while a professional club helps you engage more deeply with your program. Take the opportunity to connect with as many people as possible—whether it’s staff, faculty, or classmates—there’s always someone who can help with whatever you need.

Written by Sami Anthony