Meet Erich Langer

As the Outreach Coordinator for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Erich spends a lot of his time talking to people. He talks to kids at school, camps, and conservation programs about creating butterfly gardens and wildlife-friendly backyards. He talks to farmers, ranchers, and other people who own land to help protect animals and their habitats. He even talks to big companies, local conservation groups, and government agencies about conservation!
But that's not all he does. Erich's job is to educate people about wildlife and wildlife habitats. He plans events like natural resource days and outdoor classrooms. He also travels all over the state to check out neat endangered animals and disappearing habitats. At the office, he writes grants to create new programs and coordinates conservation partnerships between schools, companies, private landowners, and community groups. He says his job is never dull- there's always something new coming up.

Erich loves his job and would definitely recommend it. The best part of his job, he says, is working with people to accomplish goals he believes in. That, and the fact that his job is always interesting and changing.
Erich works to inspire proactivism and exploration. His goal is to use knowledge to change negative opinions and break through barriers so that more people can appreciate and safeguard our natural resources.

Career Check

If you're interested in a career in natural resources, Erich would tell you it's never too early to start preparing.

Take classes that are interesting and challenging. In the summer, volunteer to help with a conservation program or get a part-time job at a state park.

The experience will help you decide if this is the career for you, and it will look awesome on your resume. The people you meet may help you in the future, and it will show that you are interested and committed.

Did you know that in the next 3-7 years, nearly 40 percent of all natural resource personnel are retiring? Check out other Fun Facts!