Of his 2024 Geological Sciences Alumnus of the Year recognition by the Cal State Fullerton College of Natural Sciences & Mathematics, Tom Devine says he was “stunned and humbled to be nominated, and then to be selected.”
Although Devine is now a principal engineering geologist at NMG Geotechnical, Inc., his journey to geology began unexpectedly. After earning a degree in finance from Cal State Fullerton in 1989, his father’s passing led him to stay home, take classes at Santa Ana College, and reevaluate his path.
One class, in particular, sparked a transformation: geology. “I came home and told my mom, ‘I know what I want to do. I want to be a geologist,’” Devine says.
Devine’s enthusiasm was infectious, and with his mother’s unwavering support, he transferred to Cal State Fullerton to pursue his newfound passion. It wasn’t just the academics that left an impression. Devine’s time in the department was filled with memorable field trips and hands-on experiences, from the San Clemente bluffs to the deserts of California and even Thailand. These immersive experiences proved invaluable to his development as a geologist.
“The professors and staff at CSUF helped me fulfill my dream of becoming a geologist. Now, I want
to pay it forward.”Tom Devine (BA ’89, BS ’95)
“[Professors Emeriti] John Foster and Brady Rhodes led a joint Engineering Geology and Structural Geology field trip to the central coast that was a highlight,” Devine says. “My then-girlfriend and now-wife Kathy was able to join us, and we still talk about the time Dr. Foster and Kathy almost stepped on a rattlesnake hiking through the tall grasses to get to an amazing outcrop of serpentinite. The black smoker outcrop near Michael Jackson’s ranch and the pillow basalts at the San Luis Obispo shore are classic spots and are etched into our wonderful memories.
During a five-week mapping expedition to Thailand with Rhodes, Devine says they spent weeks mapping the Doi Suthep Metamorphic Complex near Chiang Mai.
“[My classmate] Jeremy Blum saved my life when I nearly fell into a river and over a waterfall, but those moments solidified my love for this field,” he says.
Devine’s time at CSUF also included a major contribution to the university’s infrastructure.
“Dr. Diane Clemens-Knott and I built a stable isotope lab from scratch in the early ’90s,” he says. “It was a challenging, hands-on project that had a huge impact on my confidence and technical skills. Each of these experiences shaped me as a geologist but, more importantly, they helped shape me as a person, and I am so grateful for all the wonderful opportunities that the geology department provided to me.”
Dedicated to Science and Mentorship
After graduating, Devine’s career trajectory took him to NMG Geotechnical, where he’s remained ever since. He began as a geologist in 1995 and is now a principal geologist, working on large-scale projects across Southern California.
“I’ve been fortunate to map thousands of acres, discovering faults, fossils, and ash beds that date back millions of years,” he says.
But the job isn’t just about the science – it’s about the people. Devine takes great pride in mentoring new geologists, many of whom come from CSUF and other California State Universities.
In his mentoring role, Devine emphasizes the importance of getting involved in professional associations like the Association of Environmental and Engineering Geologists and the South Coast Geological Society.
“Joining these organizations opens doors to new career paths and allows you to connect with professionals from a wide range of geological disciplines,” he says.
For Devine, giving back to his alma mater is a personal and professional priority.
“The professors and staff at CSUF helped me fulfill my dream of becoming a geologist,” he says. “Now, I want to pay it forward.”
Devine’s involvement with the department has included returning as a speaker, a mentor, and a resource for students. He encourages current students to pursue geology if it’s truly their passion, but he also stresses the dedication it requires. “It’s hard work, sometimes in extreme conditions, and you have to be OK with getting dirty and sweaty. For those who love the field, it’s incredibly rewarding.”
Looking to the future, Devine hopes to continue to serve as a resource for both the geology department and the broader community. As a Scout leader and a geologist, he’s committed to helping others, whether that means guiding a young geologist in the field or sharing his love for geology with the next generation.
