James Hixson
Laurelville,OH
Summary
Dynamic environmental professional with extensive experience at Ohio State University and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. Proven ability in laboratory management and effective communication, enhancing student engagement and public awareness. Skilled in microscopy techniques and environmental monitoring, contributing to successful conservation initiatives and educational outreach.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
Work History
Environmental Laboratory Demonstrator
Ohio State University, Dept. of Geological Sciences
04.1991 - 02.2007
- Increased student understanding of complex scientific concepts through engaging demonstrations and hands-on experiments.
- Developed clear instructional materials for laboratory sessions, ensuring students were well-prepared for practical work.
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current with best practices and industry advancements in laboratory education.
- Contributed to curriculum development efforts by providing input from a practical perspective, enhancing the relevance of course material to real-world applications.
- Managed Student Laboratories
- Purchased Laboratory Chemicals and Equipment
- Maintained and repaired scientific laboratory instruments, microscopes, GPS, and Field equipment
Natural Resources Technician
Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Div. of Forestry, Div. of Natural Areas and Preserves
10.1987 - 02.1991
- Enhanced wildlife habitat through effective land management practices such as controlled burns and reforestation efforts.
- Increased public awareness of natural resource conservation efforts by developing educational materials, leading workshops, and participating in community outreach events.
- Supported reforestation efforts by planting trees on land which was logged, destroyed in forest fire or cleared by industrial use.
- Promoted reforestation by reintroducing grass and groundcover plants into area to prevent soil from being washed or blown away.
- Conducted field surveys to collect data on wildlife populations and habitats.
- Surveying and monitoring estuary biota, performed water quality analysis, and Stream surveys,
Wildlife Technician
Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Wildlife
02.1977 - 10.1987
- Assisted in the successful reintroduction of native species through careful planning and execution of release strategies.
- Participated in collaborative efforts with local landowners, fostering positive relationships to advance conservation goals.
- Provided critical support during emergency response situations involving injured or distressed wildlife.
- Conducted extensive field surveys, gathering valuable information on target species abundance, distribution, and behavior patterns.
- Conducted habitat assessments for improved species conservation and management efforts.
- Performed regular equipment maintenance, ensuring optimal functionality and accuracy in data collection efforts.
- Contributed to public education efforts, creating engaging presentations on local wildlife and habitat conservation.
- Enhanced wildlife population monitoring by implementing efficient data collection techniques.
- Handled specimens and conducted tests according to established protocols, keeping efficient records on all experiments.
- Conducted game area surveys to determine variety of fauna and number of individuals of each species.
- Presented talks to public and school groups to encourage interest in STEM topics.
- Participated in habitat development and improvement activities.
- Obtained wildlife biological data through trapping and tagging animals and waterfowl.
Education
No Degree - 165 Credit Hours in Natural Resources,
The Ohio State University
Columbus OhioAssociate of Science - Fish And Wildlife Management
Hocking College
Nelsonville, OHAssociate of Science - Environmental Geology
Hocking College
Nelsonville, OHMaster Gardener Certificate
Ohio State University, Franklin County Extension Service
Columbus OhioCertified Naturalist Certification
Ohio State University, Franklin County Extension Service
Columbus OhioProject Wild & Project Aqua Certification
The Ohio State University
Columbus, Ohio01-2026
Skills
- Microscopy techniques
- Chemical handling
- Scientific writing
- Laboratory management
- Hazardous waste disposal
- Sample preparation
- Teaching assistance
- Lab safety procedures
- Instrument operation
- Laboratory troubleshooting
- Glassware maintenance
- Laboratory safety protocols
- Environmental monitoring
- Water quality testing
- Laboratory work supervision
- Excellent communication
- Laboratory techniques
Timeline
Environmental Laboratory Demonstrator
Ohio State University, Dept. of Geological Sciences
04.1991 - 02.2007
Natural Resources Technician
Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Div. of Forestry, Div. of Natural Areas and Preserves
10.1987 - 02.1991
Wildlife Technician
Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Wildlife
02.1977 - 10.1987
No Degree - 165 Credit Hours in Natural Resources,
The Ohio State University
Associate of Science - Fish And Wildlife Management
Hocking College
Associate of Science - Environmental Geology
Hocking College
Master Gardener Certificate
Ohio State University, Franklin County Extension Service
Certified Naturalist Certification
Ohio State University, Franklin County Extension Service
Project Wild & Project Aqua Certification
The Ohio State University