Trent is a Research Associate at the Michigan Geological Survey (MGS) at Western Michigan University. His research interests include glacial and fluvial geomorphology, coastal erosion, landslides, tsunamis, and earthquakes. At MGS Trent maps aggregate resources and glacial geology. Before joining the MGS, Trent was a geologist/hydrogeologist at the North Carolina Geological Survey (NCGS), mapping landslides, rockfall, and debris flows. Before working for the NCGS he mapped alluvial fans and debris flow fans at the Washington Geological Survey. Prior to becoming a geologist, Trent worked for Northwestern Territories, Inc. as a professional engineer with a focus on geotechnical and stormwater engineering applications.