Barak Geertsen
Summary
Dynamic interpretive professional with extensive experience at Fort Scott National Historic Site, excelling in visitor engagement and education. Proven track record in coaching, training, and media development, successfully reaching thousands of students and visitors annually. Skilled in interpretive writing and fostering community partnerships to enhance park resources and visitor experiences. Seeking to reenter the work force where I can use my skills in customer service and communications
Overview
31
31
years of professional experience
Work History
Interpretive Park Ranger
Fort Scott National Historic Site
08.1992 - 12.2023
- Served as seasonal supervisor. Put together hiring packets. Hired, trained, and supervised three to four employees each summer from 2017-2023.
- Served as an interpretive coach and trainer on several local, regional, and national training teams.
- Provided oversight for all school and youth programs at Fort Scott NHS. Designed curriculum based programs and presented them for up to 2000 students annually.
- Planned and led three special events each year. Attendance at these events has ranged from 600-5000 visitors.
- Planned, developed and led several interpretive talks, tours, and demonstrations. Trained others in the development and delivery of these programs.
- Served as the site's interpretive media specialist. Wrote and provided content for a mobile app. Wrote, designed and produced several print publications. Led the development of Fort Scott's website. Served as lead content creator for a National Junior Ranger book. Served as an interpretive writing coach for the National Park Service.
- Developed strong partnerships with local organizations to promote shared stewardship of park resources and foster a sense of community involvement.
Acting Division Manager
Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park
01.2023 - 05.2023
- Served in a temporary promotion as Acting Division Manager for Interpretation and Education.
- Directly supervised two permanent employees and indirectly supervised eight seasonal employees and four interns.
- Served as part of the park management team, reporting on things going on in the interpretive and education division, providing an interpretive perspective and helping the team in decision making.
- Assisted in providing training for the park's seasonal staff and interns.
- Recruited and selected an intern that was an Alaskan Native and designed a training plan to assure they had a successful experience
Education
Bachelor of Arts - History/Geography
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, UT05-1986
Skills
- Visitor engagement/Customer Service
- Interpretation and Education
- Coaching and Training
- Interpretive Writing
- Media Design and Development
- Communications
Languages
Spanish
Elementary
Timeline
Acting Division Manager
Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park
01.2023 - 05.2023
Interpretive Park Ranger
Fort Scott National Historic Site
08.1992 - 12.2023
Bachelor of Arts - History/Geography
University of Utah
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