The Virginias Section of the American Institute of Professional Geologists (AIPG) supports the proposed revisions to the Geology Certification Program, namely the addition of the Geologist-in-Training (GIT) designation and the allowance for applicants to take the Fundamentals of Geology (FG) exam shortly after completing their coursework. 

As outlined in the Virginia Register of Regulations, allowing applicants to take the FG test earlier should result in a higher pass rate and subsequently lead to a greater number of practicing geologists meeting the full certification requirements.  This furthers the goals of the Geology Certification Program, ensuring that individuals practicing geology in the Commonwealth have at least basic competencies to practice geology thereby protecting the health, safety and welfare of Virginians.  This is particularly important when many of the issues facing the Commonwealth involve geology; these issues include uranium mining, managing a sustainable clean water supply, and managing and disposing of solid and hazardous waste.

Sincerely,

Michael D. Lawless, CPG

President, Virginias Section AIPG