What was your first position in the field of forestry? 
I worked as a college intern on a timber marking and cruising crew at Lake Superior Land Company in Calumet, Michigan.

How long have you been in your role? 
I was appointed as Washington State Forester in 2010.

What do you enjoy most about being a CWSF member? 
State Forestry agencies can be leaders in solving today's pressing challenges for forests and people of the Western US. Being a CWSF member enables us to work on common priorities across our region and effectively leverage states' influence.

What do you see to be the emerging issues in your state?
Longer, more severe wildfire seasons are affecting the forests and communities of Washington State as never before. Our state experienced consecutive record-worst fire seasons in 2014 and 2015. We must all redouble our efforts to implement the Cohesive Strategy's priorities on improved wildfire response, fire-ready communities and resilient landscapes.

What is your favorite tree? 
Eastern white pine.