As communities across the country grapple with a variety of environmental policy issues, from climate resilience to mine reclamation to energy transition, the need for local solutions grounded in environmental justice is a growing imperative. Geoscientists and other STEM professionals are accordingly well-suited to leverage their scientific expertise to advance such efforts, yet are seldom trained in effective, culturally conscious ways to engage with community members and local stakeholders. In this session, attendees will hear from local geoscientists and environmental justice leaders pushing for environmental progress across the region. Panelists will highlight their work across sectors and stakeholder groups to build an equitable environmental future, providing attendees with valuable insight into careers in environmental justice and community-focused research. Attendees will also be introduced to strategies for local engagement via resources from Engineers & Scientists Acting Locally (ESAL).