Geologist Interview

Dr. Andrew A. Snelling
Geologist and author of Earth’s Catastrophic Past: Geology, Creation, and the Flood

Have you ever wondered where the rocks in your backyard came from, or how old the rocks in the Grand Canyon are? Geologists are scientists who study the earth and its history, including how rocks were formed. Let’s meet Dr. Snelling, a geologist here at Answers in Genesis!

What are some things you do as a geologist?

As a geologist, I go where the rocks of interest are. All geologists must do fieldwork, or research, in the natural environment. Geologists study maps and even produce geological maps that show where the rock layers are and how they relate to one another. Geologists also do lab work, studying rock samples and minerals under microscopes.

How did you get interested in geology?

When I was nine years old, our family had a vacation in Tasmania (Australia’s island state). While there, we visited a large copper and gold mine. I became fascinated with the shiny minerals and crystals and started collecting rocks and minerals and reading about them. By the time I started high school, I was convinced geology would be my career.

What are some of the coolest places your research has taken you?

I have gotten to climb a dormant volcano in New Zealand while completing fieldwork. On another project, I traveled to several continents to collect rock samples. Many samples were collected in the Grand Canyon.

I have also taken more than fifty raft trips through the Grand Canyon. It is so huge and expansive. Its beauty is staggering, and its many side canyons have many geological details yet to be discovered.

It has been the coolest privilege to explore and study many parts of the Grand Canyon that most people will never visit and to report on the geological details that confirm the Bible’s account of the earth’s history.

What is the most difficult part of your job?

Perhaps the most difficult part of a geologist’s job is to be away from home frequently and sometimes for long periods, often without the comforts of a bed or hot shower. Sometimes I must carry a backpack with everything I need to survive while camping. But it is so rewarding to enjoy God’s creation without all the noises and distractions of our modern world. And as a Christian, I have peace knowing God is caring for my safety.

For kids who might be interested in a job like yours when they grow up, how would you encourage them to get started?

To get started, you must have an interest in rocks, minerals, and fossils and a passion to explore and understand God’s world. You should also have a desire to study God’s Word and the details about the earth’s early history in Genesis.

Do you have a question about God’s Word or his world that you want us to answer? Is there a topic you want to learn more about? Ask your parents to help you submit your question today. Watch for our answer here on the blog or in Kids Answers magazine. We’d love to hear from you!