At AloTerra, Joseph splits his time between the field and the office. In the field, he performs wetland delineations and a number of different stream and riparian assessments. In the office, he creates restoration designs for streams and wetlands, puts together plant species lists, and writes different types of permits, such as Section 404 permits (for the Clean Water Act) and various stormwater permits.
What led you to a natural resources education/career?
I grew up surrounded by forests and ponds in Massachusetts, so I learned to value these types of ecosystems from a young age.
What do you identify as your 'big break?' Did CSU have anything to do with it?
My big break came when I landed a job as an entry-level Environmental Scientist at a consulting firm in Fort Collins. I’d worked a few seasonal positions prior to that, but this was the first permanent position I was offered.
What are you up to now in your job? Any noteworthy projects to discuss? (or any recently completed etc.)?
AloTerra just started a new project at the Poudre Learning Center in Greeley, Colorado. The site is around a ½ mile reach of the Cache la Poudre river as well as a number of wetlands. The project goals are to enhance wetland, riparian, and upland systems for wildlife and for public education.
Can you reflect on your time and experiences at CSU and how it benefited you?
I was a non-traditional student coming back to college after a long career as a chef. It was a little intimidating coming back to school, but everyone from my fellow students, the advisors, and my professors made me feel like I was part of a community and that there was always help when I needed it.
How did CSU set you up for success in your career field?
I did my best to take advantage of as many opportunities as I could while at CSU. The natural resources community is relatively small and tight-knit. Building relationships with professors and advisors was critical in my success as a professional. Nearly all the jobs I’ve gotten since graduation have been because I either knew someone from CSU or a professor had given me a positive reference.
What advice do you have for current students or recent grads?
Current students: create positive relationships with as many people as you can while you are there. These are the connections that can lead to jobs in the future. Also, work between semesters!! Apply for seasonal positions and get that work experience. Employers want to see what you can do in the real world and this will give you an edge over applicants applying for the same jobs you are.
Recent grads: don’t give up. Sometimes it will seem like everyone except you are landing a job, but stick with it. Work on your resume and interviewing skills. Join professional societies, volunteer at places that do things related to your interests. Work those connections you made at CSU. But, whatever you do, don’t give up!