Aidan Hottes

This is my second field season with the International Boundary Commission. I have worked June- September 2025 and May-September 2026 with the Boundary Commission. My job consists of working on the US-Canadian border, often in remote places. Once we have found the border, we complete reconnaissance of the monuments on the border, survey monuments to establish a line, mark lines, and run chainsaws and brush saws to establish and maintain a clear border between the countries. During this time, we have worked for weeks to months in North Dakota, Montana, Idaho, and Washington, living in motels, hotels, and backcountry camps while traveling for work. I am very familiar with running and maintaining chainsaws, and with the hard work involved in running saws in the mountains and plains. The International Boundary Commission is a seasonal job, typically running from May to September 30th.

• Operated chainsaw equipment for heavy-duty cutting tasks with full responsibility for safe, controlled execution.
• Performed brush saw work to support clearing and maintenance activities.
• Backcountry camping.
• Assisted in field data collection using surveying tools and equipment.
• Collaborated with team members to streamline surveying processes and enhance efficiency.

• Operated power tools and equipment safely in accordance with industry standards.
• Collaborated with coworkers to ensure timely project completion and high-quality workmanship.
• Assisted with movement of materials and equipment to job sites.
• Cut materials according to specifications in preparation for installation.
• Concrete work. Pouring, vibrating, leveling, and finishing.
• Welding

Worked with the International Boundary Commission on the Canada-US border. The job involved surveying monuments, replacing old markers, and cutting and clearing the vista.

• Operated wash equipment to provide efficient and thorough vehicle cleaning.
• Maintained cleanliness of work area and tools to ensure safety standards.
• Assisted customers with service options, enhancing satisfaction and experience.
• Adhered to quality control measures for consistent service delivery.