Aj Dykema
Kalamazoo
Summary
Dedicated Wildlife Biologist graduate with 4 years of in-school experience blending field research, habitat assessment, ecological restoration, wildlife management and hands-on rehabilitation to support species conservation. Eager to apply skills in data management and ecological assessments to support sustainable conservation efforts.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
Work History
Lab Assistant
Grand Valley State University
Allendale, MI
12.2023 - 04.2026
- Prepared, labeled, and cataloged biological specimens (e.g., tissue, blood, scat) for analysis.
- Maintained and calibrated equipment (e.g., microscopes, GPS units, water testing kits) and ensured a clean, sterile workspace.
- Curated and organized a university entomological collection of over 500+ pinned specimens, organizing them by order and family into new archival drawers.
- Conducted experiments adhering to safety protocols and laboratory standards.
- Managed care and feeding of live specimens, including crayfish, jumping spiders and various invertebrates.
Seasonal Park Worker
Kent County Parks
Walker, MI
05.2023 - 11.2025
- Implemented habitat restoration projects, including invasive species removal and native vegetation management.
- Maintained cleanliness and safety of park facilities through regular inspections and maintenance tasks.
- Promoted environmental stewardship among visitors through educational programming and activities.
- Communicated technical information regarding wildlife, conservation, and ecosystem health to park visitors.
- Operated large-scale commercial riding mowers and tractors, and other maintenance equipment to maintain park landscape and accessibility.
Barista
Starbucks
Grand Rapids, MI
08.2021 - 12.2023
- Executed precise, multi-step procedures in a high-demand, fast-paced environment
- Managed inventory, inventory rotation, and waste reduction routines
- Streamlined workflow processes to enhance speed of service during peak hours.
- Contributed to a positive team environment through effective communication and collaboration with colleagues.
Bookseller
Barnes and Noble
Grandville, MI
08.2021 - 08.2022
- Assisted in maintaining data integrity and accuracy across various platforms. Supported teams in organizing and managing data effectively. Contributed to the development of data management processes.
- Developed and implemented systems for effective organization of specialized knowledge, improving accessibility for team members.
- Achieved successful project outcomes by implementing effective problem-solving strategies. Drove initiatives that resulted in innovative solutions to complex challenges. Cultivated an environment that encouraged initiative and creative thinking.
- Conducted thorough reviews and assessments to maintain high levels of detail orientation.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Wildlife Biology
Grand Valley State University
Allendale, MI04-2026
Skills
- Field Research & Data Collection: Wildlife monitoring techniques, trapping, tagging, radio telemetry, and remote camera management
- Species Identification & Taxonomy: Taxonomic identification of local flora and fauna, including identifying species by sight, sound, or sign
- Data Management & Modeling: Statistical analysis using R programming, population modeling, and data analysis of environmental metrics
- Wildlife Health Assessment: Monitoring, disease surveillance, and wildlife capture/handling protocols
- Habitat Assessment & Management: Evaluating habitat suitability, conducting vegetation sampling, and restoring ecosystems
- Scientific Writing & Reporting: Technical reporting, publishing, and preparing research findings
- Physical Stamina: Ability to work long hours in harsh or remote environments
- Collaboration & Communication: Teamwork, public education, and project management
Timeline
Lab Assistant
Grand Valley State University
12.2023 - 04.2026
Seasonal Park Worker
Kent County Parks
05.2023 - 11.2025
Barista
Starbucks
08.2021 - 12.2023
Bookseller
Barnes and Noble
08.2021 - 08.2022
Bachelor of Science - Wildlife Biology
Grand Valley State University