A major in one of the Earth sciences allows the student to participate in an interesting career in any of the branches of this diverse field. The geologist's work includes finding and developing energy resources, such as petroleum and natural gas; exploring mineral resources, from metals to building materials; and in engineering geology, conducting studies to minimize damage from earthquakes and landslides and improve public safety for local, state, and federal agencies. Earth scientists also include meteorologists, who study and make predictions of weather and climate changes.