Stephen Rijo
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Graduation year: 2013
Hometown: Basking Ridge, NJ
Currently living in: Denver, CO
Current occupation: Principal City Planner – City and County of Denver Department of Transportation and Infrastructure
What was your experience at CC like as an Environmental Policy major?
It was a great experience that was intellectually fulfilling and gave me the skills to be successful in graduate school, my professional career, and my personal life.
Why were you interested in focusing on Environmental Policy as your major?
I was interested in focusing on EV Policy as my major because it included an interesting blend of environmental science, environmental policy, business, and economics courses. This provided an engaging workload and helped me develop a well-rounded background and skillset.
How are you using your major in your post-CC life?
I use my major in many ways while leading Denver’s transportation policy and planning work. I still use my GIS technical skills, but now spend more time analyzing and drafting policies, writing technical documents, and ensuring that local transportation projects and policies have far-reaching environmental benefits. The block plan also prepared me for a fast-paced work environment. I often joke that I can learn anything if you give me a month to focus on it!