Name:  Emma Kerns

Hometown:  Edgewood, IA

Major and Graduation Date:  Forestry, Spring 2021

Favorite ISU class: My favorite class wasn’t one class but the Forestry 200 series. It was an entire semester of forestry-specific classes which included spending three weeks in Montana at Forestry Camp. It was a great experience, and it was wonderful to really dive into the world of forestry! I also have to give an honorable mention to Wood Properties and Identification with Dr. Doug Stokke. 

Job Title & Company/Organization:  ISU Extension & Outreach, Northeast Iowa Forestry Field Specialist

Major Job/Position Responsibilities:  As a forestry field specialist, I’m an available resource to aid stakeholders in the forestry industry across Northeast Iowa. I help with ISU extension programs to educate land managers and other forest industry members about sound forest ecosystem management. This position is new to ISU Extension, so I look forward to crafting this program to best meet the needs of our stakeholders!

What you like most about your job/position?  I love that I get to spend most of my time spreading the good word about our forests here in Northeast Iowa! I particularly enjoy talking to land managers about how they can improve their forest ecosystem and better meet their objectives as woodland owners. Impacting the landscape in a way that will benefit all Iowans for generations to come is the best part of my job.

What advice would you give to current students pursuing a career in Agriculture and Life Sciences? Don’t get so wrapped up in making the world a better place that you forget to enjoy it too. Get outside and enjoy what our beautiful state has to offer!