Kel Clayton
Colorado Springs,CO
Summary
Environmental Science undergraduate with hands-on experience in fieldwork, conservation, and land management through work with with the U.S. Forest Service and with the Mile High Youth Corps. Passionate about plant systems, sustainability, and place-based research, and eager to contribute to conservation efforts.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Line Cook
Birdtree Cafe
Colorado Springs
09.2024 - 01.2026
- Prepared high-quality dishes following standardized recipes and presentation guidelines.
- Operated kitchen equipment safely and efficiently to maintain productivity.
- Assisted in inventory management, ensuring ingredients were stocked and organized.
- Collaborated with team members to optimize workflow during peak service hours.
- Upheld strict sanitation standards while preparing meals, maintaining a clean workspace free of cross-contamination risks.
Barista
Rico's Cafe
Colorado Springs, CO
06.2024 - 11.2024
- Managed time effectively to balance both front-of-house tasks and back-of-house responsibilities during busy periods.
- Prepared high-quality espresso beverages following standard recipes and customer preferences.
- Operated coffee brewing equipment, ensuring proper maintenance and cleanliness standards.
- Delivered exceptional customer service by addressing inquiries and resolving issues promptly.
Barista
The Perk
Colorado Springs, CO
04.2023 - 05.2024
- Prepared and served high-quality coffee beverages following standardized recipes.
- Assisted in training new baristas on beverage preparation and cafe procedures.
- Maintained inventory levels, restocking supplies to meet daily operational demands.
- Collaborated with team members to create a welcoming atmosphere for customers.
- Created seasonal drink specials to diversify the menu and draw in new customers.
Farmer
UCCS School Farm
Colorado Springs, CO
08.2022 - 03.2023
- Cultivated diverse crops using sustainable farming practices to enhance soil health and productivity.
- Operated and maintained farm equipment, ensuring safety and efficiency in daily operations.
- Managed planting schedules and crop rotations to optimize yield and resource use.
Corps Member - Saw Crew
Mile High Youth Corps
Colorado Springs, CO
05.2022 - 08.2022
- Operated chainsaws and other forestry equipment to efficiently fell trees and thin overgrown forest, mitigating fire danger on local trails in Green Mountain Falls.
- Collaborated with team members to complete project efficiently, promoting teamwork and communication.
- Conducted routine maintenance of chainsaws and equipment, enhancing reliability and safety compliance.
- Engaged with community stakeholders to foster relationships and enhance project visibility.
Cultivation Technician
Dalwhinnie Farms
Ridgeway, Colorado
03.2021 - 09.2021
- Responsible for general care of plants: pruning, transplanting, trellising, defanning, etc.
- Maintained a clean and organized grow facility, reducing the risk of contamination or pest-related issues.
- Monitored plant health and growth conditions to ensure optimal cultivation outcomes.
Youth Development Professional
Boys and Girls Club of America
Oklahoma City, OK
02.2020 - 08.2020
- Developed engaging educational programs to promote youth leadership and personal growth.
- Facilitated after-school activities, such as gardening, baking, science experiments, sprort/games, etc., enhancing social skills and teamwork among participants.
- Collaborated with community organizations to expand resources and partnerships for youth development initiatives.
Farm Intern
CommonWealth Urban Farms
02.2018 - 06.2018
- Responsible for general care of plants: Watering, weeding, planting, harvesting, etc.
- Participated in educational workshops on sustainable agriculture topics to broaden knowledge base continually.
- Implemented soil conservation measures such as cover cropping, crop rotation, and minimal tillage, as well as regularly tested and amended soil to maintain long-term fertility.
- Assisted in hosting farm tours for visitors educating them about sustainable agriculture principles.
Intern
Colorado State Forest Service,
Montrose, CO
06.2015 - 08.2015
- Conducted field surveys to collect data on tree health and forest conditions.
- Sorted and organized files, spreadsheets, and reports.
- Prepared comprehensive reports summarizing data analysis findings, informing key decision-makers of important trends and patterns.
- Contributed to a positive team environment by collaborating with fellow interns and increasing team efficiency.
Education
Associate of Science - Environmental Science
Pikes Peak State College
Colorado Springs, CO12-2026
Skills
- Greenhouse operations
- Soil management
- Organic farming practices
- Indoor farming experience
- Crop management
- Irrigation techniques
- Sustainable agriculture
Timeline
Line Cook
Birdtree Cafe
09.2024 - 01.2026
Barista
Rico's Cafe
06.2024 - 11.2024
Barista
The Perk
04.2023 - 05.2024
Farmer
UCCS School Farm
08.2022 - 03.2023
Corps Member - Saw Crew
Mile High Youth Corps
05.2022 - 08.2022
Cultivation Technician
Dalwhinnie Farms
03.2021 - 09.2021
Youth Development Professional
Boys and Girls Club of America
02.2020 - 08.2020
Farm Intern
CommonWealth Urban Farms
02.2018 - 06.2018
Intern
Colorado State Forest Service,
06.2015 - 08.2015
Associate of Science - Environmental Science
Pikes Peak State College