Meet the FLC Geosciences Department

The Geosciences Department faculty at Fort Lewis College are more than educators—they are researchers, mentors, and leaders in their fields. With diverse expertise in areas like hydrology, volcanology, and GIS technology, our professors bring real-world experience into the classroom to inspire the next generation of geoscientists.

Our small class sizes and a 1:16 faculty-to-student ratio foster close, supportive relationships. Professors work directly with students on senior research projects, field trips, and independent studies.

Faculty engage in cutting-edge research on topics like groundwater systems, environmental sustainability, and geologic hazards. Students are frequently involved in these projects, gaining practical experience and opportunities to co-present at conferences. With strong ties to industries and agencies, our faculty help connect students to internships, jobs, and graduate programs nationwide.

Faculty

Bob Krantz, Ph.D.
Honorary Professor of Geosciences

rwkrantz@fortlewis.edu

Expertise:

  • Structural geology and geo-mechanics
  • Tectonics, especially western North America
  • Petroleum geology
  • Fault and fracture systems
  • Spatial cognitive skills in geology
  • Geoscience enrichment for K-12 education

Education:

  • Ph.D., Geology, University of Arizona, 1986
  • M.S., Geology, University of Arizona, 1983
  • B.S., Geology, University of Utah, 1980
  • B.S., Biology, University of Utah, 1980

 

About Bob Krantz, Ph.D.

After completing his PhD on 3D fault systems, Bob spent a year at the University of Rennes, France, doing post-doctoral research on fault reactivation.  Back in the US, he started his career in the petroleum industry with the research division of ARCO.  Over the next 30 years, Bob worked in various roles for ARCO, BP, Phillips, and ConocoPhillps, usually as a structural geology expert, and leading projects in geologic systems around the world, especially Alaska, the Lower 48, the North Sea, and South America.  Bob retired in 2016 and joined FLC Geosciences as an affiliate faculty member where he contributes in various roles, especially with senior research projects and field camp.

Publications and Presentations

Krantz, R.W., Ormand, C.J., and Freeman, B., 2016, eds., 3-D Structural Interpretation: Earth, Mind, and Machine: AAPG Memoir 111.

Krantz, R.W., Benbow, A., Mably, C., Roy, E., Zahm, L., and Middaugh, L, 2008, The Geoscience Professional’s Science Enrichment Handbook, joint AAPG-AGI special publication, 61 p.

Krantz, R.W., 2015, Beyond Mapping: 3D Geologic Interpretation, GSA Annual Meeting Abstracts.

Krantz, R.W., and Conway, A, 2013, Structural Interpretation, Geomechanical Modeling, and Fracture Prediction in the Clair Field, West of Shetlands Basin, UK, GSA Annual Meeting Abstracts.

 

Staff

Emeritus & retired faculty