Destinea Cato
Houston
Summary
Recent graduate with foundational knowledge in Outdoor Recreation and hands-on experience gained through academic projects , trips, and internships. Demonstrates strong teamwork, problem-solving, and time-management skills. Prepared to start career and make meaningful contributions with commitment and drive. Experienced with leading outdoor expeditions and ensuring participant safety. Utilizes advanced knowledge of wilderness survival and navigation to create memorable adventures. Track record of building cohesive teams and adapting to dynamic outdoor conditions.
Overview
2027
2027
years of professional experience
Work History
Birding and Nature Events Coordinator
Land, Sea & Sky
Houston, TX
09.2025 - Current
- Conducted sales of nature observation optics at various birding and nature festivals across the country, fostering brand awareness and customer relationships.
- Coordinated communication strategies between departments to foster teamwork and develop specialized events.
- Educated customers on features and benefits of nature observation optics to encourage informed purchasing decisions.
- Designed and led educational hikes centered on birding and nature exploration to promote environmental awareness among participants.
Retreat Hostess
Pure Hope Ranch
Mount Vernon, TX
2025 - 2025
- Welcomed and seated guests, ensuring timely service and positive first impressions.
- Coordinated with kitchen staff to ensure smooth communication during busy service times.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of dining area to uphold health standards.
- Supported servers, food runners, and bussers with keeping dining area ready for every guest.
- Organized, stocked and cleaned establishment's front lobby during shifts to maintain welcoming appearance, ensuring the comfort of guests throughout their visit.
Outdoor Recreation Trip Leader
Texas A&M University
Commerce, TX
2023 - 2025
- Led group activities, ensuring participant safety and engagement during outdoor excursions.
- Trained in igh and low element ropes course, rock climbing walls, belay certifications and more.
- Coordinated logistics for travel arrangements, including transportation and housing accommodations.
- Developed itineraries that highlighted educational opportunities and cultural experiences for participants.
- Trained and mentored new trip leaders on best practices for managing group dynamics and emergencies.
- Led groups on hikes, excursions, and other outdoor activities while prioritizing safety and enjoyment for all participants.
- Built personal relationships with guests to promote positive experiences.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Wildlife Conservation/Management -Biology
East Texas A&M University
Commerce08.2025
Associate of Science - Agriculture
Northeast Texas Community College
Mount Pleasant, TX12.2023
Skills
- Habitat maintenance
- Physical endurance and strength
- Interest in mindfulness, wellbeing and mind-body-soul connection
- Team leadership & supervision
- Customer service
- Trained on high ropes and challenge course elements
- Recordkeeping & organization
- Equipment & tool use
- Time management
- Strong communication
- Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Basic geospatial mapping (GIS)
Certifications
- Wilderness First Aid (WFA)
- Belay Certified
- CPR
Timeline
Birding and Nature Events Coordinator
Land, Sea & Sky
09.2025 - Current
Retreat Hostess
Pure Hope Ranch
2025 - 2025
Outdoor Recreation Trip Leader
Texas A&M University
2023 - 2025
Bachelor of Science - Wildlife Conservation/Management -Biology
East Texas A&M University
Associate of Science - Agriculture
Northeast Texas Community College