Grace Toftner: Engineering Sustainability
Grace Toftner is a senior majoring in chemical engineering at the University of Arizona. Originally drawn to the field for its flexibility and problem-solving potential, she has found even more purpose in using those skills to take on real-world environmental challenges. Her passion for sustainability shows up in everything from clean energy and water conservation to her curiosity about more responsible approaches to mining.
This past year, Grace was part of the Liverman Undergraduate Environmental Fellows Program, where she worked with students from a variety of different majors on projects focused on communication, leadership and environmental impact. Through the experience, she gained new perspectives on teamwork and discovered just how important collaboration is in creating change.
In this Q&A, Grace talks about how her engineering background connects with her sustainability goals, how students can lead by example, and why caring about the environment matters no matter what you’re studying.
Why did you choose to study chemical engineering?
I chose this field because I felt that it gave me a lot of freedom career wise, would give me strong problem solving skills, and I could apply my interests in math and science. I also liked that there were clear paths to different fields related to sustainability, such as clean energy, water filtration, waste management, and development of cleaner materials.
How have you been involved in environmental or other activities as a student at the University of Arizona?
During this past school year, I had the privilege of participating in the Liverman Undergraduate Environmental Fellows Program here at U of A. This experience enhanced my communication skills and provided unique opportunities to collaborate with students across different disciplines, which was a welcome contrast to my primarily technical coursework.
Being part of a community of environmentally-minded students was also enjoyable and exciting, as we shared a common passion for environmental leadership and effective communication. The program created an engaging space where we could learn from each other's perspectives while developing our leadership skills.
During my time in the program, I collaborated with a team working alongside the Environmental Defense Fund's Water Leadership Institute. My particular role was to help create a landing page for the program. The experience deepened my understanding of local water issues while demonstrating the powerful role that community engagement plays in effective environmental stewardship.
How do you hope to incorporate environmental or sustainability values into your future career goals?
As I move forward in my engineering career, I am committed to making sustainability and environmental protection core priorities in my work, regardless of which industry I join. I understand that engineering roles, especially in production, can have significant environmental impacts. That's why I'm determined to be part of the solution rather than contributing to environmental problems. I hope to work in a role where I can make a direct and positive impact on the environment. Additionally, I plan to actively seek out opportunities to implement sustainable practices and make environmentally conscious decisions in my future role.
Are there any specific aspects of sustainability or the environment that you are particularly passionate about?
As a chemical engineer, I am particularly passionate about clean energy development and water sustainability. These fields present exciting opportunities to address some of our most pressing environmental challenges.
Given Arizona's significant mining industry, I'm also interested in how sustainable practices can be implemented in mineral extraction processes to minimize environmental impact. The intersection of mining, water conservation, and clean energy presents unique challenges where I believe my chemical engineering background can contribute to developing more environmentally responsible solutions.
I hope to develop those interests further through the rest of my education and early in my career.
How do you think students can contribute to encouraging more sustainable behaviors and decisions in places like the U of A?
I believe that leading by example is one of the most powerful ways students can promote sustainability at U of A. By consistently making environmentally conscious choices and openly sharing our commitment to sustainability, we can inspire others to follow. I feel that it is important to not underestimate the power that our seemingly little choices have. It's important to speak up about environmental issues we care about and share our knowledge, but equally important to demonstrate these values through our actions. Even small, everyday choices can create effects throughout our community. You never know who might be influenced by your positive environmental actions and choices.
Why should students care about the environment, even if it isn't their major or area of study?
The environment plays a fundamental role in every aspect of our lives and will significantly shape our future, regardless of our chosen field of study or career path. Environmental issues affect our health, economy, food systems, and quality of life. No matter your future career, the environment will influence you, and you will surely face important decisions regarding the health of the environment.