Forest Management Transfer

Meet the staff

	Timothy Dunn Instructor 503.399.5253 dunt@chemeketa.edu Forest surveying, Timber Cruising
	Ara Andrea Instructor/Program Chair 503.399.6534 gara@chemeketa.edu Silviculture, Dendrology

Ralph Thompson, AITC Western District Manager Inspection Bureau

My professional background started at Chemeketa Community College. I received an Associate of Applied Science in Forest Resource Technology 1999.

I chose the Chemeketa Community College Forestry Department because of the personal one on one environment that the forestry professors provide. This type of environment allowed for a full grasp of the materials in a friendly, helpful atmosphere. The professors also increased the educational experience with knowledge of the professional fields available to graduates.

All of this gave me the opportunity to pick the profession that fit what I wanted out of life. I used the education that I gained at Chemeketa Community College as my stepping-stone and moved into a university setting. Once at the university I fully realized the advantage Chemeketa Community College gave me. As my peers were trying to fully apply their prior education in the advanced courses, I was able to easily apply my education and focus on the new material. Because of the smaller class sizes and the hands on approach from Chemeketa Community College, I understood the general theories and how they were used and how to apply them in everyday situations. I understood what equipment was needed, how it is used, and why in everyday forest practices. It was plain to see Chemeketa Community College provided me a strong advantage over students that started their education at a university.

All of this put me into a position to help others and form a strong self-confidence in leadership roles. As I moved from schooling to the work force, I knew I had the skills and knowledge for the field of my choice. Competition for the position was strong; there was one opening and numerous applicants throughout the United States. I went up against people with Master's Degrees and PH D's. When I talk to my supervisor's about why I was chosen, they state that it was my knowledge of the basics and the fact that I knew how to apply them and why. As I reflect back, I know that it was Chemeketa Community College that gave me the education and tools to get me where I am today.

Ralph Thompson
AITC
Western District Manager
Inspection Bureau

Updated October 2006 by the College Advancement Department.