He was one of several American pioneers in the scientific study of earthquakes,[2] and he became a recognized authority on glacial geology in New England.

[4] After a few years working in business, he matriculated to the Lawrence Scientific School of Harvard University to begin technical training.

Nathaniel Shaler chose Woodworth as his personal assistant for a lengthy study of the coast of New England.

[3] Woodworth was placed in charge of establishing and maintaining the Harvard Seismographic Station in 1908,[4] and he would become noted for his accurate and meticulous record keeping.

[5] For eight months in 1908, he took a leave of absence to lead the first Shaler Memorial Expedition to South America.

[2] A Harvard graduate fellowship in geology was established in his memory, largely based on contributions by his former students.