Hi, I’m Iris Keister and I am a senior at the University of Pittsburgh pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Ecology and Evolution with a certificate in Sustainability. After graduation, I will be getting a PhD in Ecological Sciences with hopes to eventually write environmental law. Growing up living in several states around the country I saw environmental injustice at a large range. This observation made me passionate about changing the way we think and function about Earth and what better way to do that than to change the laws. I’m in hopes that everything we are learning and implementing within this project will prepare me better for my future.

Something unique about me is that I’ve always been drawn to seeing how systems connect. In my academic life, that’s meant studying how ecosystems function, how organisms adapt, and how humans impact these processes. Outside of school, it shows up in smaller ways like hiking, it lets me see the intersections of nature and people. These “connections” have shaped not only how I learn but also how I see my role in larger projects like this one.

Our project for our capstone is working in collaboration with the Chamber of Commerce to address and solve a lack of technical skills programming, specifically robotic welding, in Fayette County. In addition to working with the Chamber of Commerce, we are also in collaboration with Heartland Fabrications in Brownsville, Pennsylvania. Heartland Fabrications is a steel fabrication company that specializes in large-scale steel components for bridges, barges, and other critical infrastructure. They are a significant employer in the region and play an important role in supporting the local economy. However, like many companies in the manufacturing sector, they face a shortage of workers with the specialized technical skills necessary to keep operations running smoothly and to remain competitive in their industry. By partnering with Heartland Fabrications, our team has the opportunity to help identify ways to strengthen workforce training and ensure that both the company and the community can thrive.

At first glance, it may seem like a big leap for someone studying ecology and sustainability to focus on something like robotic welding. But I see the relevance in the bigger picture. Communities thrive when they have access to education, training, and jobs that allow people to remain where they live rather than being forced to leave for opportunities elsewhere. A community that is economically stable is one that can better prioritize sustainability, equitable policies, and long-term environmental care. In that sense, projects like this are not separate from my long-term goals.

This project matters because it directly addresses a gap between workforce needs and workforce skills. Robotic welding may sound technical, but it’s also about empowerment. By training people in specialized, in-demand skills, we give them more options for employment and upward mobility. This strengthens the community as a whole, not just economically but also socially. I initially hoped this project would lead to a long-term program that continues to benefit Fayette County beyond our capstone timeline. If we can help set the groundwork for sustainable programming, then the impact will last far longer than a semester.

In terms of my professional goals, I hope to pursue a career at the intersection of science and law. My long-term plan is to write and influence environmental policy, laws that protect ecosystems, regulate industries, and address environmental injustice. One thing I’ve learned from projects like this is that policy doesn’t happen in an instant. It is tied to economic realities, education, social systems, and the voices of communities. Being able to work on a project that involves a client, real stakeholders, and community needs helps me practice the skill of listening, translating ideas, and thinking about how policies can actually be implemented.

I joined this project because I wanted to be part of something hands-on, collaborative, and rooted in real community impact. While research has always been central to my academic path, I also believe in stepping outside of the classroom to see how knowledge connects with practice. The ACRI Project offers that balance. I also know that working with a client like the Chamber of Commerce gives me experience in professional communication, adaptability, and teamwork.

Looking ahead, I am most excited about seeing the results of our team’s effort come to life. I know not every step will be smooth, but the process itself is just as important as the final product. We are learning how to work across disciplines, how to listen to a client’s needs, and how to design solutions that matter. My hope is that by the end of this project, we not only deliver something of value to the Chamber of Commerce and Fayette County but also grow as professionals.