Tatiana Frontera graduated from NC State in May 2024 with a bachelor’s degree in environmental sciences and a minor in biological sciences. She now works as a compliance inspector and life scientist for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
At NC State, Frontera served as an assistant for theTropical Stream Ecology Lab, where she analyzed water samples from streams in Costa Rica and Puerto Rico. She was also a member and social media chair for the Epsilon Eta Environmental Fraternity.
During the summer of 2022, Frontera completed a conservation internship with the Montana Conservation Corps. Over the course of her internship, she completed stream monitoring, conservation education and outreach for the Madison River Foundation.
NC State writer Emma Stuck recently spoke with Frontera to learn more about her decision to study environmental sciences at the College of Natural Resources and how her time in the program prepared her for her role with the EPA’s Clean Water Act.
What inspired you to study environmental sciences?
Tatiana Frontera: I’ve always been fascinated by natural systems and passionate about protecting the environment. When it came time to choose a major at NC State, the Environmental Sciences program stood out to me, not only because it aligned with my own interests but also because of the energy and passion I saw in the students at the College of Natural Resources. Being surrounded by others that care deeply about the Earth and the role science plays in protecting it has continued to motivate me to stay curious, keep learning, get involved and give my best every day for the planet.
How did the college prepare you for your current position?
Frontera: The College of Natural Resources gave me a solid foundation for my career. Courses like ENG 333: Communication for Science and Research and NR 460: Renewable Natural Resource Management and Policy taught me skills I rely on every day to complete my tasks. Completing an internship and a senior capstone project, both of which focused on water, also gave me valuable hands-on experience that prepared me for the kind of projects and casework I now handle regularly.
What is a typical day in your job like?
Frontera: A typical day as a life scientist depends on whether I’m in the office or out in the field. On office days, I focus on case management. This includes writing inspection reports, developing enforcement cases and continuing to deepen my understanding of the Clean Water Act. When I’m in the field, I travel to regulated facilities to conduct National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) inspections, making sure they’re complying with their permits under the Clean Water Act.
What impact are you making through your position?
Frontera: My role as a life scientist supports the Clean Water Act and the NPDES program, which means I help protect, preserve and improve the water quality of U.S. waters in Region 5 (Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan and Ohio). By overseeing point source discharges, my work plays a direct role in protecting water for public health, wildlife and the broader environment.
What advice do you have for current College of Natural Resources students?
Frontera: Talk to your professors — they’re an incredible resource. Whether you’re curious about something from class and want to dive deeper into a topic or you’re just interested in a certain career path, they’re there to support you. Also, get involved in clubs or organizations that spark your interest. It’s a great way to meet people and explore what you’re passionate about outside the classroom. Lastly, enjoy Howling Cow as much as possible. You don’t know what you’re missing until it’s gone.
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