Natalie Wilkens
Grand Junction
Summary
Environmental science educator that is passionate about the health of our ecosystem and water use along the Colorado River Watershed. Looking to move out of education and expand knowledge base of soil and water science in relationship with water usage.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Environmental Institute and STEAM Instructor
EUREKA! McConnell Science Museum
Grand Junction, CO
09.2022 - Current
- Accompanied groups of elementary students and R5 high school students to the Western Colorado Research Center – Orchard Mesa location, to help connect kids to agriculture and instruct kids about planting, harvesting, agriculture, and healthy cooking
- Spearheaded a new safety initiative to update safety SOPs in outdoor skills biased camps (rock climbing, mountain biking, skiing, and watersports) and worked with a team to create both short and long term benchmarks, skills checkoffs, and staff roles in the field
- Developed curriculum focused on the Colorado River Watershed for an environmental science club at Orchard Avenue Elementary, with 22 K-5th graders for the 2025 spring semester
- Researched environmental science topics such as hydrology, botany, dendrochronology, and biology to design and write age appropriate curriculum that enhanced student understanding and connection to the outdoor environment and stewardship
- Created and executed itineraries and logistics for overnight and day trips for groups up to 15 students
- Collaborated and communicated with community partners to create hands on learning opportunities and deepen students connections with community partners
Recreation Intern
Town Of Frisco
Frisco, CO
05.2022 - 07.2022
- Assisted in planning and organizing recreational events and races for community engagement
- Interpreted and organized recreation survey data for Frisco Town Council
- Drove company vehicles around Summit County and Denver including 15-passenger van and F-150
- Co-led 30+ kids ages 4-10 on local adventures through Frisco Fun Club (city childcare program)
Education
Bachelor of Science - Outdoor Recreation Industry And Business
Colorado Mesa University
Grand Junction, COSkills
- Gardening
- Environmental health
- Native plant knowledge
- Public speaking
- Adaptability
- Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets
- Experience with all-weather work conditions
Certification
- Wilderness First Responder, NOLS - September 2025
Timeline
Environmental Institute and STEAM Instructor
EUREKA! McConnell Science Museum
09.2022 - Current
Recreation Intern
Town Of Frisco
05.2022 - 07.2022
Bachelor of Science - Outdoor Recreation Industry And Business
Colorado Mesa University