Environmental Education 

The North American Association for Environmental Education (NAEE) defines environmental education as a process that helps individuals, communities, and organizations learn more about the environment, and develop skills and understanding about how to address global challenges. 

There are countless ways and avenues to teach about the environment and outdoors. Places like nature centers and summer camps are prime examples of environmental education in action. In general, environmental education is a huge aspect of careers in the outdoors. Within the National Park Service, there are many positions that focus on environmental education, if it's being a park ranger or an outreach specialist, a huge part of a NPS job is educating the public about the importance of natural spaces and historic areas. 

The National Park Service is an agency of the federal government. The agency was created in 1916 through the National Park Service Organic Act. There are so many career opportunities and pathways within the National Park Service. For instance, many employees focus on environmental education, while others focus on topics like wildlife tracking and archaeology. There are so many options!

In the videos below, learn more about three professionals, and their journey in environmental education.

Jim Ford

Meet Jim, an Education Specialist at the National Park Service - Mississippi National River and Recreation Area. In his role, he focuses on on engaging youth with the outdoors, and facilitating educational field trips along the Mississippi River.  

Lauren Kitrell

Meet Lauren, an Interpretive Naturalist at the Lowry Nature Center in the Three Rivers Park District. There are many facets to Lauren’s job, including caring for the reptiles and amphibians at the nature center!

Haddy Bayo

Meet Haddy, a Seasonal Ranger at the National Park Service - Mississippi National River and Recreation Area. Her favorite part of her job is having the opportunity to explore outdoor spaces all over the Twin Cities!

A Deeper Dive

After learning more about career paths in environmental education and at NPS, please take a look at Career Fields and Careers in the National Park Service. Take some time to think and record answers to the following questions –

• What career field are you most interested in and why? 

• Pick an employee profile. Which one did you choose and what stuck with you?