American Institute of Professional Geologists honors Thomas Howe
Western Michigan University Geosciences Specialist Senior Thomas Howe was honored with the 2025 Outstanding Educator Award from the Michigan Section of the American Institute of Professional Geologists for his outstanding mentorship and dedication to student success. The honor highlights Howe’s deep commitment to helping future geoscientists build professional skills, industry connections and confidence as they prepare for careers in the field. His leadership also contributed to the Geology Club/AIPG Student Chapter earning the 2023, 2024 and 2025 AIPG National Student Chapter of the Year Award and again in 2026, marking the group as four-time national awardees.
Dr. Heather Petcovic, chair of WMU’s Department of Geological and Environmental Sciences, says the recognition reflects
Howe’s long-standing impact on students both inside and outside the classroom. Among many roles, Howe serves as the department’s staff advisor for the WMU Geology Club, which is also a Student Chapter of AIPG.
“We are truly proud of Tom for having been recognized as an outstanding student mentor and educator,” Petcovic says.
The Geology Club/AIPG Student Chapter is entirely student led and student run, but Petcovic says Howe’s involvement significantly expands what the group is able to accomplish.
“Tom’s connections with alumni, industry and local geoscience employers ensure that the students have access to real-world experiences that build their professional networks and prepare them for career opportunities,” she says.
Howe, a two-time Western Michigan University graduate who earned a bachelor’s degree in hydrogeology in 2010, graduating magna cum laude, and a master’s degree in geology in 2017, leads one of the department’s best-known experiential learning efforts. He directs WMU’s Hydrogeology Field Course, a nationally known program that gives students hands-on experience tackling environmental and hydrogeologic challenges alongside practicing professionals. He also supports student-led events, fundraising, field trips and community outreach, work Petcovic says has strengthened the club and expanded opportunities for its members.
For Howe, the award is meaningful because it reflects the achievements and enthusiasm of the students he works with.
“Receiving this recognition is especially meaningful because it reflects the accomplishments of our students and the strength of the Geology Club/AIPG Student Chapter,” he says. “Their enthusiasm, initiative and commitment to professional growth are what motivate me to invest time in supporting outreach, field experiences, networking opportunities and other activities that help connect classroom learning with real-world careers.”
Howe’s own experience as a WMU student shaped his approach to mentorship.
“As a two-time WMU graduate and longtime staff member in the department, I’ve benefited greatly from mentors who invested in my development,” he says. “I try to provide the same opportunities, encouragement and industry connections that helped me succeed, while helping students build confidence and discover their own career paths.”
The American Institute of Professional Geologists, founded in 1963, advocates for the profession and supports qualified geoscientists across disciplines. The WMU student chapter’s recognition underscores Howe’s role in preparing the next generation of geoscience professionals.