The EPIC-FWS Division strives to become a bridge between academia and career by assessing the educational and experiential backgrounds of potential members and/or fellows in an effort to connect them with rewarding careers as the next generation of natural resource stewards or to simply foster an enhanced sense of respect for natural resources and the entities responsible for their management. The EPIC FWS Alumni listed below served with ACE EPIC and went on to full time positions with the Federal Government. Continue reading below to learn about their successful journeys!


Steven Jenson

Steven Jenson - EPIC Crew Member

ACE Position: Invasive Species Technician at Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuge Complex 

Current full time position with the USFWS: Wildlife Refuge Specialist – Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuge Complex

It has come the time to turn a chapter in my life and say goodbye to ACE as I move into a new position with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. For the last two years, I have been working as an invasive technician under the EPIC program stationed at the Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuge Complex. Mainly, I have been working to combat the noxious weeds found within the complex. ACE and the Klamath Basin Refuges also allowed me to explore all aspects of refuge work that I was interested in. I had the opportunity to gain experience working with the biologist conducting surveys on migratory water birds, assist in response to wildlife disease outbreaks, as well as wetland and water management. It was this wide range of experience that provided me with the skills to become a Wildlife Refuge Specialist for the Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuge Complex. I am very grateful for everything that ACE and the Fish and Wildlife Service has provided me. 

Steven Jenson - EPIC Crew Member Riding Air Boat

Lauren Healey

ACE Position: Biological Technician at Parker River National Wildlife Refuge

NRCS Position: Permanent position with the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS)

Hi my name is Lauren Healey and I worked as a biological technician at the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge with the US Fish and Wildlife Service through ACE. During my time I helped with a plethora of fieldwork including vegetation transects, marsh restoration monitoring, and invasive species management. Not only did I develop field skills, but I grew my professional network and partnership skills as well. Now, I have just accepted a permanent position with the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS).  ACE has served as an important stepping stone for me to enter a federal position and pursue a career in environmental conservation..  ACE has served as an important stepping stone for me to enter a federal position and pursue a career in environmental conservation.

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