GENERAL CAREERS OVERVIEW

Employee Profiles

Yewah Lau
Forest National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) Coordinator
Let's face it. Natural resource management isn't something that most people think about. That's why my job as a Forest NEPA Coordinator is to get the public involved in land management decisions. I assemble interdisciplinary teams of specialists to restore watersheds, improve habitats, and conduct other environmental analysis projects. I present each project's findings to the public before passing the information - and the public reaction - to policymakers. The work I do is important, and that feels good.

When I began working for the Forest Service four years ago, I didn't really know what the agency did. I learned more after being selected as a Presidential Management Fellow. It's a great program for grad students interested in management work. Looking for announcements on usajobs.gov is another great way to learn more and find jobs in government.

I am constantly amazed at the expertise and dedication of my co-workers. Even when people disagree on policy decisions, their passion for their work and for the agency's role in managing National Forest lands always shows. I have also been fortunate enough to have wonderful mentors in the Forest Service.

After working at the Forest Service headquarters in Washington, DC, I really wanted a chance to do something more hands on. The move to the Olympic National Forest has been perfect. Here, I have the opportunity to actually get out into the forest and see the wonderful natural places I have the privilege of caring for. I wouldn't trade that for the world.

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