Will Manley
Minneapolis,MN
Summary
Experienced educator and naturalist at heart dedicated to conservation through education and building connections between people and the land & life around them. Plans events, cares for animals, and leads activities such as nature hikes, bug parties, and fun packed field trips! CPR, AED, and Lifeguard Certified.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
Work History
Seasonal Naturalist
Three Rivers Park District
Brooklyn Park, MN
04.2026 - Current
- Developed and led educational programs on local wildlife and ecosystems for diverse audiences.
- Coordinated special events that highlighted seasonal changes in nature, increasing community participation in park activities.
- Promoted education on ecology, natural resources and environmental concerns to visitors through captivating presentations, elaborate exhibits, and hands-on workshops.
- Provided age-appropriate interpretive programs for children enrolled in day camps and nature education programs.
Early Childhood Environmental Educator
Urban Ecology Center
Milwaukee, WI
08.2024 - 10.2025
- Facilitated educational programs, including field trips, summer camps, day camps, and in school presentations
- Planned activities like nature hikes to educate children and adults on local habitats and ecosystems.
- Delivered education on ecology, natural resources, and environmental concerns to visitors via presentations, exhibits, and hands-on workshops, inspiring actionable understanding.
- Developed strong connections between children and nature through engaging activities and experiences. between children and nature through both direct and indirect experiences
Historical Interpreter
Old World Wisconsin
Eagle, Wisconsin
03.2022 - 08.2024
- Developed and implemented interpretative programs for multiple historic sites, enhancing visitor engagement and understanding of history
- Led school groups (K-8th grade) in educational programs, including hiking and garden walks, fostering a love for history and nature among students
- Demonstrating historic trades including but not limited to spinning, weaving, and dying with natural dyes
- Working with all ages and backgrounds of people daily to inspire a passion for history and nature
- Adapted to diverse terrains and weather conditions while performing tasks
- Cared for plants and animals associated with the site while educating visitors on their maintenance and historical significance
Eco Volunteer
River Revitalization Foundation
Milwaukee, WI
02.2023 - 06.2023
- Planted and nurtured native species post-invasive removal to promote biodiversity
- Supported invasive species removal efforts to restore local ecosystems
- Collaborated in groups to clean and maintain riverfront trails, enhancing community access
- Performed tasks outdoors in various weather conditions
- Sent information via mail and email to donors and volunteers
Veterinary Assistant
Fox Valley Veterinary Clinic
North Aurora, IL
05.2020 - 09.2020
- Assisted veterinarians during examinations and procedures, ensuring patient comfort and safety.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of examination rooms and surgical areas.
- Enhanced patient care by assisting veterinarians with examinations, surgeries, and diagnostic procedures.
- Cleaned and disinfected exam areas, surgical equipment, and kennels to prevent diseases and control odors.
- Provided compassionate care for animals during treatment and recovery from illnesses or injuries.
Education
Fine Arts - Art History
Milwaukee Institute of Art And Design
Milwaukee, WI05-2023
Skills
- Master naturalist
- CPR AED Certified
- Lifeguard Certified
- Wildlife identification
- Plant identification
- Care for domestic and wild animals
- Education (PreK-12)
- Summer camp counselor
- Maple sugaring
- Large vehicle and trailering experience
Timeline
Seasonal Naturalist
Three Rivers Park District
04.2026 - Current
Early Childhood Environmental Educator
Urban Ecology Center
08.2024 - 10.2025
Eco Volunteer
River Revitalization Foundation
02.2023 - 06.2023
Historical Interpreter
Old World Wisconsin
03.2022 - 08.2024
Veterinary Assistant
Fox Valley Veterinary Clinic
05.2020 - 09.2020
Fine Arts - Art History
Milwaukee Institute of Art And Design