Dr. Jean Hutchinson: Geologic Engineer on Risk, Resilience & Gender Inclusion
Take a break, we’re on Smoko. In this powerful episode, we speak with Dr. Jean Hutchinson, a renowned professor and expert in geologic engineering and rock mechanics. With more than 25 years of experience, Dr. Hutchinson has helped shape how we understand and manage geological risk in infrastructure, mining, and community safety.
Her career began unexpectedly, but she quickly found purpose in the world of geotechnical engineering. From managing mine sites to stabilizing slopes, Jean has made critical contributions using technologies like LIDAR, deep learning, and machine learning to monitor and mitigate geohazards.
“Engineering isn’t just about building structures; it’s about managing the risks that come with them.” – Dr. Jean Hutchinson
The conversation covers pressing challenges related to climate change, including how thawing permafrost and shifting rainfall patterns affect slope stability and infrastructure integrity. Jean emphasizes the need for proactive planning and inclusive, community-based approaches to engineering resilience.
As an educator, she is deeply committed to developing future engineers who not only solve technical problems but also consider social and environmental impacts. She shares how her students engage in public workshops to evaluate resource hazards and improve communication between technical experts and communities.
Jean also leads important work in equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI). She’s created workshops addressing harassment in engineering and co-authored research on the need for informed consent and safe conditions during field assignments. Her work with her daughter is helping reshape how companies implement inclusive policy and training.
This episode is an inspiring call to action for engineers, educators, and anyone in STEM: challenge stereotypes, embrace community-driven science, and build infrastructure that is not only strong—but just.