Matthew Raabe
Black River Falls,WI
Summary
Dynamic Area Forestry Staff Specialist with a demonstrated history of leadership in orchestrating fire response coordination as a dispatcher and incident commander, crafting and implementing impactful training programs, and overseeing forest management across private, state, county, and federal lands.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Area Forestry Staff Specialist
Wisconsin Department Of Natural Resources
Black River Falls, Wisconsin
02.2023 - Current
- Manage dispatcher duties, ensuring efficient coordination of fire response across the Black River Falls area, frequently extending coverage to the Dodgeville area.
- Orchestrate development and execution of meetings and trainings throughout Southwest District, encompassing IMT simulations and Forestry in-services.
- Provide support and direction to team members regarding policies, procedures, and new developments.
- Facilitate project implementation and meeting coordination for Area Forestry Leader within area.
- Implement IA simulations to support the development of new Incident Commanders across the district.
- Inspect fire reports for consistency and accuracy within area.
- Formulate innovative strategies and training programs to elevate performance and success of team members across area.
Forester-Ranger
Wisconsin Department Of Natural Resources
Black River Falls, Wisconsin
09.2019 - 02.2023
- Worked alongside DNR collaborators and property managers to develop and execute forest management activities, including timber sales and prescribed burns.
- Managed forest fire response efforts within FRU, fulfilling role of Incident Commander during most incidents.
- Guided and developed new foresters through hands-on mentorship.
- Instructed 30-40 new wildland firefighters each spring at Black River Correctional Center.
- Oversaw implementation of Mock Fire Training for Black River Falls Area
Forester-Operator
Wisconsin Department Of Natural Resources
Black River Falls and Park Falls, Wisconsin
10.2015 - 09.2019
- Crafted tailored forest management strategies alongside private landowners reflecting unique interests.
- Coordinated with partners on DMAP visits to guarantee exemplary service for landowners.
- Educated the public on forestry practices and environmental stewardship through workshops.
- Oversaw State Forest timber sales while upholding adherence to state regulations and guidelines.
- Executed tractor-plow functions during forest fire control, prescribed burns, and project activities.
Lead Forestry Technician
United States Forest Service
Park Falls, Wisconsin
08.2015 - 10.2015
- Oversaw functions of timber marking crew
- Assisted with the development of short-term and long-term management plans for forests.
Forestry Technician
United States Forest Service
Kenton, MI
05.2014 - 08.2015
- Established timber sales, focusing on northern hardwoods.
- Trained and mentored technicians on best practices for timber sale establishment.
- Monitored contractor adherence to established guidelines within contracts.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Forest Management
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point
Stevens Point05-2014
Skills
- Qualified ICT4
- Qualified WRXB
- 2023 DNR Leadership Academy Graduate
- IMT Simulation Development
- BRCC S-130/190 Lead Instructor
- DNR RX Burn Team Member
- Meeting Coordination and Development
- Customer Service Excellence
Timeline
Area Forestry Staff Specialist
Wisconsin Department Of Natural Resources
02.2023 - Current
Forester-Ranger
Wisconsin Department Of Natural Resources
09.2019 - 02.2023
Forester-Operator
Wisconsin Department Of Natural Resources
10.2015 - 09.2019
Lead Forestry Technician
United States Forest Service
08.2015 - 10.2015
Forestry Technician
United States Forest Service
05.2014 - 08.2015
Bachelor of Science - Forest Management
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point