David Kent Lewis

  Degree:    Bachelor of Science           
  Major:      Forest Management                        

  Additional education undertaken after graduation:
          Master of Forestry, Yale University
          Doctor of Philosophy, University of Oxford

  Years in the Field:    44       
  Current Job Title:     Emeritus Associate Professor, Forestry
  Organization:           Oklahoma State University               

  How did you find this job?
  Through an advertisement in the Journal of Forestry

  Previous Job Titles and Organizations:
  Oklahoma State University, 1982 - Present
          Emeritus Adjunct Associate Professor, Agricultural
          Economics
          Forestry & Adjunct Associate Professor, Agricultural
          Economics
          Associate Professor, Forestry
          Director Environmental Sciences, Undergraduate      
 
Weyerhaeuser Company, Research & Development, 1963 - 1982
          Strategic Analysis Project Manager   
          Technical Planner, Forestry Research  
          Silvicuturist, Research & Development
          Forester, Klamath Falls Region
  Yale University, School of Forestry & Environmental Studies, 1968 -1967
          Research Assistant

Please describe your job:
Continuation of teaching and research activities initiated while an active member of the Oklahoma State University Faculty; including advising of graduate students and teaching a graduate course for the Graduate Environmental Science Program.

What from your undergraduate educational experience was most helpful in preparing you for this career?
The total undergraduate curriculum supporting the Bachelor of Science degree in Forest Management, including communication courses (writing and speech) and humanities courses.

What is the biggest misconception about this occupation or field?
That the Forestry profession is focused on the forest and harvesting forest products.

What advice do you have for current students?
Use your time at the University to explore ideas and try things. Don't limit yourself to the courses and activities required for your major. Use your vacations to establish contacts with potential employers, and try out different kinds of employment within your chosen profession.

Is there anything else you would like to add that we didn't ask you?
Always remain true to yourself and your beliefs. Do not sacrifice your integrity for financial or personal gain.