Client Spotlight: Jack Sheldon, Senior Remediation Specialist at Antea Group

When topics of environmental microbiology and remediation come up for discussion, few people within the industry can match the depth and experience of Jack Sheldon, Senior Remediation Specialist at Antea Group, and co-leader of the firm’s Site Assessment and Remediation practice. With more than 30 years of experience covering remediation technology, performance, and optimization, Jack brings a wealth of knowledge and technical expertise to a variety of REGENESIS and Antea Group projects.

As an international engineering and environmental consulting firm with access to more than 3,000 employees in over 100 offices, and a track record of success covering six continents, Antea Group relies heavily on specialists such as Jack, whose primary responsibilities include innovative and emerging technologies and external technology relationships. His skillset contributes significantly to Antea Group’s full-service solutions in the fields of environment, infrastructure, urban planning and water.

A Pioneer in Bioremediation

An author of numerous papers and co-author of two best-selling books on bioremediation, Jack’s interest in our planet’s environment continued throughout his university studies at Wagner College in Staten Island, NY, where he earned his BS in Bacteriology & Public Health and an MS in Environmental/Industrial Microbiology. During the early stages of his career he became keenly interested in environmental remediation while focusing on a variety of environmental issues. Shares Jack, “I had been working on environmental compliance issues at a specialty chemical company for about five years when I saw an ad in the newspaper looking for microbiologists for a pioneering bioremediation.  I was so intrigued by the concept of bioremediation that I couldn’t resist applying for a position. And I never looked back.”

Collaboration for Remediation Success

In working with REGENESIS, Jack appreciates and values the highly collaborative partnership Antea Group and REGENESIS have forged over the years, one that consistently produces positive results for a multitude of clients. Jack continues, “I see REGENESIS as a partner in providing solutions for many Antea Group clients.  While I bring 34 years of experience to the table, I’m always interested in how others view a problem and what their experiences have been.  REGENESIS has been exceptional in its creative and results-based approach to remediation, and when issues arise, working proactively to quickly get past those issues.”

While Jack appreciates how important the shared experience and knowledge base is between Antea Group and REGENESIS, he realizes that his client’s success starts with Antea Group, and the tremendous depth of experience the company has amassed as a leading partner in the development and application of sustainable and integral solutions relating to the environment.  Indeed, Antea Group’s name itself signifies the company’s commitment to our environment. The Antea name derives from the Greek mythological figure Antaeus, son of Poseidon, ruler of the sea, and Gaia, mother earth. Antaeus was known for his legendary strength, acquired by remaining in physical contact with the Earth. As one might expect from a company that is committed to sustainability, core values play a vital role within Antea Group. These values include innovation, continuous improvement, philanthropy, and a steadfast belief in the positive results of collaborative partnerships. In addition, Antea Group prides itself on being client-focused. “Antea Group is all about our clients having an exceptional customer experience,” shares Jack. “We work in many industries and provide services that our clients are interested in – site assessment, environmental management, compliance, transaction support, and sustainability consulting.  As our clients’ needs evolve, we evolve with them.”

Jack and his wife Gail live in Des Moines, Iowa, where outside of work he enjoys several hobbies and activities, such as long walks with his Labrador retriever, Jersey and working outside on various landscaping projects.  He is also an avid professional soccer fan after being a player, coach, and referee for many years.  In addition, Jack enjoys jazz music and listening to “The Boss”, Bruce Springsteen.

The Future of Bioremediation

When asked how he sees the future of bioremediation, Jack points to emerging technologies, along with continued exploration within the industry, as two areas that will continue to have an impact. Concludes Jack, “Thanks to the emergence of molecular biological tools, we continue to learn more and more about microbial populations, how they interact, and what we need to do to optimize their performance.  We continue to discover degradation pathways for both old and new contaminant types.”

REGENESIS is pleased to have Jack Sheldon, Senior Remediation Specialist at Antea Group, as a valued client and partner in environmental remediation, and appreciates his role and contributions toward ensuring successful project outcomes.