James Michael Felts
Corpus Christi,TX
Summary
Highly skilled and results-driven Fish and Wildlife Hatchery Technician with over 26 years of experience in aquatic species management, hatchery operations, and environmental conservation. Proven ability to lead and supervise diverse teams, manage hatchery operations efficiently, and ensure optimal breeding and rearing conditions for various fish and wildlife species. Adept at managing resources, developing strategic plans, and maintaining regulatory compliance while fostering a culture of safety and excellence in fish and wildlife conservation programs.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Fish and Wildlife Hatchery Technician III (Supervisory/Managerial)
CCA Marine Development Center
06.2018 - 03.2025
- Supervise and manage a team of 9 hatchery technicians, ensuring efficient operation and maintenance of fish hatchery systems, including water flow, water quality, and breeding conditions
- Oversee the hatchery’s breeding and stocking programs, including the identification, spawning, and rearing of various aquatic species to support fish conservation efforts and stock local water bodies
- Develop and implement staff schedules, training programs, and performance evaluations to ensure high productivity and technical expertise among the team
- Collaborate with biologists and wildlife experts to create and implement hatchery protocols aimed at improving the survival rates and health of fish and wildlife species
- Monitor hatchery budgets, track expenses, and optimize resource allocation to ensure cost-effective operations
- Ensure compliance with state and federal regulations, including fish stocking permits, hatchery reporting requirements, and environmental laws
- Serve as the primary point of contact for external stakeholders, including local communities, regulatory agencies, and environmental groups
- Lead environmental monitoring activities to ensure proper water quality, habitat conditions, and biological health of all species in the hatchery
- Conduct routine inspections of hatchery infrastructure, systems, and equipment, troubleshooting and resolving issues as necessary to ensure continued smooth operations
Fish and Wildlife Hatchery Technician II
CCA Marine Development Center
01.1999 - 06.2018
- Assisted in the daily operations of the hatchery, including monitoring water quality, managing broodstock, and ensuring the health of fish populations
- Collected and analyzed biological data on fish growth, reproduction, and health to inform hatchery management decisions
- Supported staff training in hatchery procedures and safety protocols
- Assisted with fish stocking activities, ensuring proper distribution to various water bodies and maintaining accurate records of stocking data
- Provided hands-on support for hatchery operations, including cleaning tanks, feeding fish, and performing water quality tests
- Assisted in the identification and maintenance of hatchery equipment, such as filtration systems and aerators, to maintain optimal breeding conditions
- Worked closely with senior technicians and managers to ensure daily operations were carried out effectively and efficiently
Education
Texas A&M-Corpus Christi
Corpus Christi, TX08.2001
Associates Degree - Biology
Del Mar College
Corpus Christi, TX12.1997
Skills
- Hatchery Operations Management
- Team Leadership & Supervision
- Plumbing maintenance and repair
- Electrical repair and installation
- HVAC maintenance and repair
- Welding
- Carpentry
- Painting
- Landscaping
- Vehicle fleet operations/maintenance/repair
- Aquatic Species Management
- Regulatory Compliance & Reporting
- Budget, Resource, and Purchasing Management
- Staff Training & Development
- Community Outreach
- Environmental Conservation Practices
- Water Quality & Fish Health Management
- Data Collection & Reporting
- Conflict Resolution & Problem-Solving
- Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Data Analysis & Report Writing
- Aquatic Species Health Monitoring Tools
- CAPPS/EPORTAL purchasing software
Certification
CPR and First Aid Certified, American Heart Association, 05/30/24
Affiliations
Coastal Conservation Association, Member
Coursework
- Aquatic Ecology
- Environmental Regulations
- Fisheries Management
- Conservation Biology
- Environmental Chemistry
- Water Quality Analysis
Timeline
Fish and Wildlife Hatchery Technician III (Supervisory/Managerial)
CCA Marine Development Center
06.2018 - 03.2025
Fish and Wildlife Hatchery Technician II
CCA Marine Development Center
01.1999 - 06.2018
Texas A&M-Corpus Christi
Associates Degree - Biology
Del Mar College