Productivity Insights from Environmental Science: A Conversation with Sam Wilkes
On today’s episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I’m chatting with Sam Wilkes about productivity and getting things done. Sam is an environmental scientist and project manager with the Thrasher Group in Charleston. He brings a scientific approach to his work, which is fascinating.
Productivity is a big deal, especially in the scientific field. Scientists follow the scientific method, a series of steps to ensure accurate results. It’s tempting to skip steps, but each one is crucial. Sam manages environmental projects, dealing with clients, permits, wetlands, streams, and hazardous materials. His role requires efficiency and effectiveness, both key components of productivity.
I ask Sam what productivity means to him. He believes it boils down to getting things done. The difference between work and productivity, and between being busy and being productive, is significant. Being busy doesn’t always mean being productive. Sam emphasizes the importance of delegation, assigning tasks that match his team’s strengths, and maintaining efficiency. In consulting, time is money, so every action must be time and cost-effective.
Environmental science involves long-term goals. Permitting and remediation of contaminated sites, like brownfields, take time. I ask Sam for advice on tackling long-term goals. He suggests having foresight, prioritizing tasks, and understanding that significant accomplishments require time and planning. Patience and strategic planning are essential in this field.
I ask Sam for any final thoughts. He explains that environmental science encompasses physics, geology, engineering, biology, and chemistry. It’s rare to excel in all these areas, but wearing multiple hats is part of the job. He encourages embracing new challenges and learning continuously. The environment is ever-changing, and adaptability is crucial.
A question about getting others on board with productivity brings out another insightful response from Sam. He stresses the importance of idea-sharing. Collaboration is vital, as one great idea often emerges from numerous suggestions. Encouraging team members to contribute their thoughts, even if many are not feasible, is essential to uncovering those few excellent ideas. Without exploring all possibilities, we might miss the best solutions.
Our conversation highlights that productivity isn’t just about doing more; it’s about doing things right. It involves planning, collaboration, and continuous learning. Whether managing long-term environmental projects or tackling daily tasks, the principles Sam shares are universally applicable. Efficiency, effectiveness, and embracing change are crucial for success.
As we wrap up, I reflect on the insights shared. Productivity in environmental science, or any field, requires a balance of planning, teamwork, and adaptability. Sam’s perspective on sharing ideas and prioritizing tasks offers valuable lessons for anyone looking to improve their productivity.