A civil engineer works with others to identify solutions to problems that occur in forests.
Implementing my engineering judgment to try to solve issues in the forest. Also, a level of curiosity into exploring the features of the forest.
While conducting assessments in the forest, there are occasions when it becomes difficult to navigate around Forest Service roads. I have to be able to conduct the work intended but also be cautious with the safety of my coworkers and myself.
I use my iPad due to its versatility and field collecting features. For example, I create maps with data on my laptop through ArcGIS and it will navigate to the location. Once I reach my point of interest, I can collect data through Field Maps or Avenza on my iPad.
The project I was most excited about was developing the fire evacuation plan for a visitor center in the forest. It was interesting to see the old blueprints and conduct measurements of the building to see the changes from the original set of drawings.
I knew I would be happy working for the forest the day I went out to the field and hiked to the breathtaking sites. I did not know the forest that well, but after a couple of weeks, I appreciated the opportunity to visit the Allegheny National Forest sites.
