Work History

Here's a summary of my past work, within the environmental field, prior to starting AtoZec.

HDR Engineering, Inc

Phoenix, AZ

2006 - 2013

HDR is where I learned, took root, and mastered much of what I know today in the environmental business. It was a wonderful experience where I learned from great people, traveled the West, and was involved in many interesting projects. I essentially held two jobs there; Environmental Planner which largely entailed managing projects, and Biologist which entailed biologizing. While I did myriad things over there, here are a few bullets of the tasks that formed the bedrock of my knowledge today.

Biologist

Led wildlife and botanical surveys in Arizona and western United States.
Prepared biological documents in support of EISs, EAs, CEs, and other technical documents
Performed formal and informal Section 7 consultations with the USFWS
Developed biological construction monitoring plan and performed construction monitoring

Environmental Planner

Managed CEs for linear transportation projects
Assisted on EISs and EAs
Solved challenges in ever changing regulatory environment
Developed cost estimates and monitored budgets/schedules for 20+ projects simultaneously
Wrote and reviewed a variety of environmental documents
Mentored staff in the NEPA process

Flood Control District of Maricopa County

Phoenix, AZ

2003-2004

While obtaining my Master's degree I interned in the environmental planning department at Flood Control. I received excellent tutelage and guidance from the entire department. I performed various tasks for the department as items came up. Some of the more prominent jobs included working on their comprehensive plan, handling GIS assignments, and helping in their native tree nursery.

Magic Eyes River Barge Program

Chao Prya River, Thailand

2002

An absolute joyful period of my life. I worked as a teacher aboard an old rice barge converted to a floating classroom. We traveled the Chao Phrya River on multi-day trips with students of all ages. Lessons focused on environmental education along the river. Some specific activities included water quality testing through identification of macroinvertebrates and studying the Asian open-billed stork. Lessons extended to cultural exchanges on the island of Ko Kret and Thai history amongst the ruins of the old capital, Ayutthaya. We also traveled overland to teach within the Khao Yai and Doi Inthanon National Parks. There was never a boring day and I always enjoy recollecting memories, so if you're curious about this adventure, I'm happy to answer questions.