Since starting my internship at Michael D. Baker Incorporated (MDB), one person has stood out as a mentor: Betsy Galluzzo. From our very first virtual introduction, Betsy made it clear she wasn’t just checking a box, but rather genuinely wanted to support my growth. That initial call felt different. I immediately sensed she would be a guiding light during my time at MDB, and I’ve been so lucky to have met others during my time here so far.
Betsy has a remarkable way of leading. She takes the time to truly understand each person she works with. In our early conversations, she asked questions to uncover my interests and identify where I had the most room to grow. I always remember her support to be spirited and optimistic. She explains how things get done at MDB while also connecting those day-to-day tasks to the bigger picture of environmental health consulting and policy. Her approach makes complex ideas feel accessible and exciting.
What impresses me most, though, is Betsy’s proactive generosity with her network. She recently introduced me to a professional in the Pacific Northwest whose work aligns closely with my passion for building technical skills in environmental data collection and surveying. That conversation gave me a rare window into a possible future. One I wouldn’t have accessed on my own. As a first-generation college student, I’ve often felt the challenge of navigating this industry without built-in connections or insider knowledge. Betsy changed that for me.
By taking the time to understand me as a person, not just an intern, she turned her own network into an opportunity for me. That single connection transformed my internship from a temporary role into a meaningful foundation for my career. It showed me that impactful leadership is seeing the potential in your team and using your position to lift others up.
Betsy embodies the spirit I’ve come to admire at MDB and what the field of environmental leadership needs more of – people who don’t just advance their own work but actively help those around them grow. She has inspired me to approach my career with intentionality: to build relationships, share opportunities, and contribute to work that matters for the long term. I’m deeply grateful to have her as a mentor so early in my journey.
Blog Author: César Galindo – Class of 2026
Published on July 31, 2026