April Cortines

A recent graduate from the University of Calgary

In April 2023 I will be graduating from the University of Calgary with a degree in Environmental Science, concentrating in biology. Throughout my Environmental Science studies, I gained valuable experience working 2 years in the field as a technician and environmental monitoring. I worked with consultant companies such as Hatfield, Stantec, and Golder to retrieve field data with integrity. As a co-op student at Suncor, I learned and worked on the No Net Loss Fish reclamation programs of Fort Hills. My main role here was retrieving surface and groundwater samples from sites that were accessible in trucks, ATVs, or helicopters. Once the samples were collected, I became very confident in filling out a chain-of-custody form. I worked closely with my colleagues to coordinate summer projects and plan for field programs, working within department budgets and constraints. I demonstrated strong character and responsibility, leading my team in 10 to 12 hours days in wetland programs, using waders, and carrying water monitoring equipment. I also was able to be part of stream gauging and monitoring programs, operating equipment like Star-Odin data loggers, and dolphin software to monitor data. These projects allowed me to value safety above all else, resiliency in working on unexpected sites, and adaptability to adversities under time constraints projects.

I also acquired more experience in vegetation management and identification projects, which I was already familiar with through my work at Parks Canada as a vegetative technician. I am also very familiar with and comfortable with working away from home to conduct site visits. Working in the backcountry, with no cell service, allowed me to become comfortable with GPS and Trimble’s to help navigate, record data, and export locations. Through the Calgary Horticulture Society, I have been able to develop my writing and communication skills through e-newsletter publications. I can present myself at a level of maturity during board member talks. I have demonstrated strong intrapersonal skills when dealing with board members. This role has allowed preparing and internal external reports, and follow-up with questions, allowing me to develop strong relationships.

Environmental Science major concentrated in Biology