Mackenzie Abrigo
Killeen
Summary
Enthusiastic wildlife monitoring professional with a strong foundation in ecological surveys and plant identification. Experienced in utilizing GIS technology and collaborating on conservation projects, ready to contribute valuable insights to support environmental sustainability.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
Work History
Monarch Field Technician Intern
Environment for the Americas
Killeen, TX
04.2026 - 11.2026
- Conducted field surveys to monitor monarch butterfly populations, breeding activity, and habitat quality using standardized protocols.
- Identified and recorded native milkweed and nectar plant species while collecting ecological data with GPS and mobile data collection software.
- Contributed to habitat assessments to evaluate ecological conditions.
- Collected and organized field data for research and conservation projects, ensuring accuracy and accessibility for analysis.
- Collaborated with biologists and field technicians to support wildlife conservation initiatives and ensure data quality.
- Followed field safety procedures while working independently and as part of a team in remote outdoor environments.
- Presented survey findings and project updates to supervisors and team members, facilitating informed decision-making.
- Participated in outreach events that educated the public about monarchs and our goals within the team and Environment for the Americas as a whole.
- Created engaging weekly blog content that translated fieldwork experiences and monarch conservation activities into accessible, audience-friendly stories for the public.
Aquarist Intern
Gladys Porter Zoo
Brownsville, TX
05.2024 - 08.2024
- Monitored water quality parameters, adjusting conditions to support aquatic life sustainability.
- Assisted in daily care and feeding of aquatic animals, ensuring optimal health and wellbeing.
- Collaborated with staff to implement enrichment activities for marine species, enhancing behavioral stimulation.
- Maintained cleanliness and safety standards in animal habitats, promoting a hygienic environment.
- Maintained off-exhibit areas in clean, organized and safe fashion.
- Maintained current knowledge of specimens under care as well as husbandry requirements.
Student Research Assistant
Texas A&M University S.M. Tracy Herbarium
College Station, TX
08.2023 - 05.2024
- Organized and maintained comprehensive research database of plant families, enhancing accessibility of genus and species information.
- Developed and maintained spreadsheets, questionnaires, and research tools to facilitate data collection and analysis.
- Performed data entry tasks to ensure accuracy of information collected during research projects.
- Participated in creating and entering data into an online data base for the purpose of public access.
- Assisted in the preparation and preservation of plant samples using appropriate techniques.
- Conducted field research to collect and document plant specimens for herbarium collections.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Rangeland, Wildlife, And Fisheries Management
Texas A&M University
College Station, TX08-2025
Skills
- Wildlife Monitoring
- Ecological Field Surveys
- Habitat Assessment
- Plant Identification
- Data Collection & Management
- Field survey techniques
- GIS/GPS Navigation
- ArcGIS
- Microsoft Excel
- Outdoor Field Work
- Professional communication
Timeline
Monarch Field Technician Intern
Environment for the Americas
04.2026 - 11.2026
Aquarist Intern
Gladys Porter Zoo
05.2024 - 08.2024
Student Research Assistant
Texas A&M University S.M. Tracy Herbarium
08.2023 - 05.2024
Bachelor of Science - Rangeland, Wildlife, And Fisheries Management
Texas A&M University