Sunny Penhollow
GIS Analyst,
Center for the Environmental Managment of Military Lands

  

Plant Science Career Path

  • Emphasis in biological sciences in high school; honors biology, anatomy and physiology as well as core science studies
  • During a summer break, I volunteered with the U.S. Forest Service in Kamas, Utah to perform bird surveys. My field partner had a degree in Forestry and was able to introduce me to that discipline.
  • Obtained a Cooperative Education position with the U.S. Corps of Engineers at Saylorville Lake and maintained employment while attending classes. I was classified as a Park Ranger and performed duties such as natural resource work (prescribed burns, timber stand improvements, etc), interpretive programs, regulation enforcement, boat patrol, fee program, and geographic information systems (GIS). This position granted me a broad exposure to the operations of a recreation facility.
  • Obtained an internship with ProMap Corporation which, focused solely on GIS work.
  • Graduated from Iowa State University with a degree in Forestry (Resource Management).
  • Continued to work as a Park Ranger for the Corps of Engineers after graduation.
  • Currently work with the Center for the Environmental Management of Military Lands as a GIS analyst.

What does Sunny like about her job?

Expert's Advice to Young People

Want to know more?

" I thoroughly enjoy the rapid technology growth involved with GIS. It is exciting to see technology and natural resources merge together to produce an efficient avenue for resource management.

"I also enjoy the ability to work with an agency that holds lands in a broad range of ecosystems and possesses many objectives."
  • Diversity adds strength to your career; maintain many interests inside and outside of your discipline.
  • Public speaking and communication skills are the keys to forward mobility.

Email Sunny to learn more about her experiences as a GIS Analyst.

To find out more about the
Center for Environmental Management of Military Lands where Sunny works, check out their website.
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