Emma Solomon ‘26, a environmental and sustainability science student with a energy and business minor from Danville, CA, spent her summer applying skills she learned in the classroom to real-world projects. From mapping wetlands and evaluating sites for environmental issues, she gained hands-on experience with Kimley-Horn, a nationwide engineering consultant firm with at its Fort Worth location. .
A Summer at Kimley-Horn
At Kimley-Horn, Solomon stepped into the role of environmental analyst, where her
work included both office-based research and tactical fieldwork.
“My projects included tree inventories, Walmart phase one environmental site assessment (ESA) reports, phase one fieldwork and preparation, wetland delineation fieldwork, report writing and species identification,” she says.
In other words, she spent her time surveying nature, checking sites for environmental risks, studying wetlands and turning her findings into detailed reports.
Through each distinct part of her experience, Solomon continued to build upon the skills she gained from TCU, directly applying technical skills learned in the classroom to real-world consulting projects.
Why Environmental Consulting?
The Environmental and Sustainability Studies major explores the relationship between people and the natural world through courses in both science and policy. By studying topics like climate change, conservation and environmental justice, students gain the knowledge to create solutions that protect the planet and support a more sustainable future.
"I was drawn to environmental consulting because it combines problem-solving with tangible, on-the-ground impact,” Solomon states. “I’ve always been interested in how sustainability and regulation shape real projects, and consulting allows me to contribute to both,” Solomon says.
She found this opportunity when Kimley-Horn visited her environmental compliance class, explaining their mission what environmental consulting was. After enjoying their presentation, Solomon connected with their team to learn more about the role.
Experience to Expertise
Beyond technical training, Solomon’s internship was filled with new, challenging experiences
that shaped her personally and professionally. One particular site visit stands out
as a highlight of her summer.
“The most memorable and meaningful moment was traveling to an abandoned coal-fired power plant in Taylor, Texas,” she reveals. “That trip not only gave me the chance to see a unique and impactful site, but it also allowed me to grow closer with my coworkers. I learned so much from both the technical work and the conversations we shared.
Emma left her internship with both technical expertise and professional skills that she will carry into her future career. From geographic information system (GIS) mapping and wetland delineation to clear communication and balancing multiple projects, she gained the confidence to manage responsibilities effectively and contribute meaningfully to her full-time role.
TCU’s Role in Her Success
Solomon credits her strong academic foundation from TCU for preparing her to thrive in the fast-paced consulting world.
"My coursework in environmental compliance, geographic information systems and sustainability gave me the technical foundation to understand the projects I worked on,” she says. “For example, my GIS training allowed me to pick up ArcPro (GIS evaluation software) tips and tricks quickly. My professors emphasized connecting regulation to practice, which helped me adapt to phase one ESA work and compliance-focused tasks.”
Without the foundation she built in the classroom, Solomon says she wouldn’t have been able to step into her role with confidence or contribute to her team as effectively as she did.
Looking Ahead
Her summer with Kimley-Horn solidified her passion for this kind of work and opened the door to her next chapter.
"This internship confirmed that environmental consulting is a strong fit for me,” Solomon explains. “It showed me that I enjoy both the variety of work, and the impact of seeing projects through from data collection to reports. Going forward, I have accepted a full time offer with its environmental team in Dallas post-grad.”
What she expected to be a routine weekly check-in turned into the moment she was offered the full-time position. Recognized for embodying Kimley-Horn’s culture of being helpful, hardworking, and collaborative, she says, “My boss explained to me that I was able to take on any task she handed me with ease and that I was always asking the right questions. I attribute this to what I have learned at TCU.”
Emma’s internship highlights how TCU’s strong network connects students with top companies. Being in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, one of the fastest-growing job markets in the country, also gives students access to leading employers and exciting career opportunities.
Advice for Future Horned Frogs
“Don’t be afraid to ask questions; balance curiosity with professionalism by showing initiative in learning. [Also,] explore and don’t be afraid to step into new experiences. Some of my most valuable opportunities came from being open to trying something new. At the same time, lean on professors, peers and the TCU network; those connections can open doors to internships and career paths you might not expect.”
Grace Hartenstein ’26 is a double major in strategic communication and sociology from Millsboro, Delaware, and is a strategic communication writer for TCU’s Office of Admission.