Tell us about your first job after graduating.
I work with private landowners across Larimer County to implement forest restoration treatments on their properties. These forestry treatments address multiple natural resource concerns including forest health, fire mitigation, and wildlife habitat. In this role I am responsible for maintaining relationships with the landowners, developing their project with forest inventory and leave tree marking, managing the forestry project as loggers complete the treatment, and planning monitoring efforts post-treatment. I also get a lot of experience with technical writing, multi-agency partnerships, and internal leadership in this position.
How did Warner College prepare you for your career?
My time at WCNR prepared me for my career by providing multiple opportunities to collaborate with my peers in class and through student organizations. Without my involvement in the Society of American Foresters Alpha Chapter, and my engagement in classes like the Forestry Capstone, I would not have been as prepared to collaborate with my team and partner agencies on the complex projects we implement throughout the county.
What advice would you give to current Warner College students?
My advice to current students is to diversify your work experience throughout college. Don't commit to one agency type (private, local, state, federal); instead, try out seasonal positions with multiple agency types to see where you fit best. By the time you graduate college, you will have a better idea of where you want to work and what you want to do, which will help with your job search post-graduation. Lean on your professors and mentors to guide you through the job searching process.