Bob Scheierl

Degree:    Bachelor of Science
Major:       Forest Resources Development

Additional education undertaken after graduation:
        M.S. Forestry

Years in the Field:    32       
Current Job Title:     Real Estate Specialist                                         
Organization:           Itasca County          

How did you find this job?
        Internal transfer within Itasca County.

Previous Job Titles and Organizations:
Itasca County, Minnesota
        Forest Improvement Specialist
        District Forester
        Assistant Land Commissioner

Please describe your job:
        Help set County land sale, land exchange, and other land policy.
        Coordinate review of land sale and acquisition requests. 
        Process land sales, land exchanges, road easements, etc. 
        Administer County leases.
        Administer County Environmental Trust Fund.

What from your undergraduate educational experience was most helpful in preparing you for this career?
A broad base of natural resource courses providing a solid foundation in natural resource management, as well as writing and speaking course work.

What is the biggest misconception about this occupation or field?
The perception that everyday is a fun day in the woods without having to interact with people.  My career has included a lot of contract administration and conflict resolution, contrary to what I had expected.

What advice do you have for current students?
I did not get involved in organizations as an undergraduate.  I believe they can be very helpful in developing people skills.  Recognize that people skills are an important part of almost any area of natural resource work—especially with land management.  Choose coursework accordingly.