Original Member Series- Robert Briggs

Robert Briggs, a 20-year resident of the Prescott area, moved to Yavapai County from Sacramento when he was 25 years old. After working as a reputable auto mechanic, he elected to change his career path and made the decision to return to college life as an older student at the age of 34. With persistence and dedication, he graduated in the spring of 2015 from Northern Arizona University with a Bachelor of Science in Geology. During his work in the auto industry, he attained ASE Master Tech certifications and developed the ability to fix just about anything. This has led to a unique opportunity for Robert to join GEM as our fleet supervisor and as a contract geologist working with our Abandoned Mine Lands Inventory team. He thoroughly enjoys being outside with his eyes constantly on the terrain. His experiences working in the automotive field and his renewed zest for geology offers GEM a unique ability to visit remote field locations without fear of being stranded. 
 
 “What do you enjoy most about being involved in GEM?”   
The prospects of working with GEM offers unique ability to partner with people of many different backgrounds. One of GEM’s primary focus is to serve the persons within the underrepresented genres. As such, I am included in that statement being an older individual that retired from one trade to move into another presented many difficulties. To be able work in an environment with folks of many great and wonderful talents gives me great joy.
 
What were your feelings when GEM first started and being part of the organization? 
At the beginning, I much like Eric Welsh, our CEO did not know if we were going to sink or swim. We sure did not want to sink, so we spent our time ensuring that every aspect of GEM is exactly as it should be constantly learning, growing, and expanding into new and specialized niches that have never been attempted or given the appropriate attention. My feelings were one of excitement, trepidation, and passion for the love of the science we take great joy in. 
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What kind of progress has GEM made and what kind of progress do you see GEM making in the future? 
I am never ceased to be amazed by the growth and potential that GEM has seen and been blessed with. It takes a lot of steadfast and hard work accomplished by the many fine folks within GEM to achieve such a growth. I fully expect to observe GEM to continue growth offering more services to the community and its partners in the many years to come. 
 
In what ways does GEM feel like a family and what do you like most about GEM? 
Being a part of the team much like being part of a family is the best part. Our interactions with each other brings community together, serves to help brighten our days, and even will bring a smile to each other’s faces. The laughs, science, community work, and programs offered via GEM all are aspects that help make it to feel, function, and appear to be a family. All of which are highlights that I would not trade for anything in the world. ​