Melanie B. Fullman
Degree: BS Forestry Business Title: District Ranger A few months ago, I accepted a promotion to my new position as District Ranger on the Ottawa NF, where I am thoroughly enjoying the new challenges and area. I am convinced that As to how I got here from there: 1985 - 1990 -Stewardship Forester; then Forest & Fire Officer Michigan DNR As my work history probably reveals, I am a natural resource generalist. When I earned a BS in Forestry at Purdue, my major studies were in Wildlife and Recreation. In the past 20 years, I have worked in nearly every resource discipline: timber, wildlife, fisheries, fire, permits, minerals, recreation, real estate, range, and urban forestry. Had Purdue forced me into a more traditional education in just one resource area, I would not have had so many opportunities. While there will always be a need for specialists, most natural resource agencies seek also seek employees with diversified interests and skills. As my former Wildlife Professors would attest, being adaptable remains an ecologicallyl useful characteristic! In addition, I left college with optimism and self-confidence. I now realize that my educational journey will never end. I'm grateful Purdue was the beginning. On the "road less traveled", it may be just as important where one starts... Hope this helps. Best fishes, Melanie |
