Stephen Galdek
Portola,CA
Summary
Enthusiastic Naturalist with over 5 years of experience supporting and encouraging individuals to grow while preserving and protecting the natural world. Draws from variety of experiences and strategies to support individual empowerment and unified endeavors. Uses creative approach to problem-solving and consistently treats all people and the environment with respect.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Lead Instructor/On-site Coordinator
Sierra Nevada Journeys
02.2023 - Current
- Developed positive relationships with students, parents, and teachers built on trust and respect, encouraging open communication and mutual support at home and in the classroom.
- Incorporated real-world examples into outdoor lessons, connecting abstract concepts to students' everyday lives.
- Established custom curriculums utilizing Challenge Course principles to develop individual and teamwork potential.
- Led department meetings to provide input to colleagues about student achievement and improvement.
- Amplified the existing curriculum by conducting bird, butterfly, and wildflower surveys of the surrounding land to boost the knowledge and teaching potential of instructors.
Farm Apprentice
Sandhill Farm
03.2014 - 11.2014
- Led groups of visitors on tours inspiring sustainable land use and harmonious community dynamics.
- Planted, cultivated, and harvested wide diversity of crops within 150 acres.
- Maintained facilities, repaired and operated machinery, and conducted forestry work.
- Carried out Monarch butterfly restoration project involving focused effort of native Milkweed planting.
Biological Science Technician
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
02.2013 - 02.2014
- Conducted independent research by carrying out pollination surveys for the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service's species inventory program.
- Maintained extensive database of 30,000 bee specimens testing for abundance and diversity on public and private land.
- Led Youth Conservation Corps in various conservation projects on six wildlife refuges in the southwest.
- Collaborated with museums, universities, and elementary schools to engage public environmental awareness and education.
Land Steward
Knox College
06.2012 - 09.2012
- Led groups of visitors and volunteers in tours, workshops, and projects involving tallgrass prairie restoration.
- Maintained 700 acre restored wildlife preserve and carried out conservation projects for educational exploration.
- Removed invasive plant species from restored tallgrass prairies using safe chemical and mechanical methods.
- Maintained and extended trail system throughout whole preserve.
Ecologist Intern
Applied Ecological Services
06.2011 - 09.2011
- Safeguarded natural resources by conducting plant and animal surveys, collecting and processing native prairie plant seeds, and evaluating ecological conditions.
- Planned and implemented conservation projects by investigating sites, providing documentation, designing detailed plans, and preparing reports.
- Implemented soil or water management techniques such as nutrient management, erosion control, or filter strips in accordance with conservation plans.
- Devised comprehensive plans to resolve natural resource issues and maintain responsible land use by coordinating with property owners to drive conservation efforts.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Biology/Environmental Studies
Knox College
Timeline
Lead Instructor/On-site Coordinator
Sierra Nevada Journeys
02.2023 - Current
Farm Apprentice
Sandhill Farm
03.2014 - 11.2014
Biological Science Technician
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
02.2013 - 02.2014
Land Steward
Knox College
06.2012 - 09.2012
Ecologist Intern
Applied Ecological Services
06.2011 - 09.2011
Bachelor of Arts - Biology/Environmental Studies
Knox College