Colin Brainard

Detail-oriented Environmental and Earth Science professional with dual academic degrees specializing in Hydrogeology, Environmental Conservation, and Outdoor Recreation Leadership. Skilled in GIS mapping, soil/water profile analysis, team leadership, and risk management. Versatile professional background combining field research, safety enforcement, marine sales and customer support, athletic coaching, aquatic performance management, and high-volume hospitality management.

Student Teacher – Science & Ecology - Northland Pines Middle/High School - Eagle River, WI

(2023-09 - 2023-12)

• Taught Ecology, Life Science, Chemistry, Physics, and Astronomy across grades 7–12; designed activity-based labs.
• Enforced laboratory safety protocols and implemented 5E-style lesson models tailored to diverse learning styles.

Teacher's Assistant (Environmental Science) & Job Coach - North High School & L.E. Phillips Career Development Center - Eau Claire, WI

(2023-03 - 2023-05)

• Assisted 9th-grade Environmental Science instruction and job-coached individuals with disabilities on workplace task execution.

Environmental Researcher - Northern Michigan University - Marquette, MI

(2009 - 2009)

• Developed a mock Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for proposed development using GIS tools to optimize site selection and environmental preservation.
• Conducted soil and geological analyses to identify minimal-impact zones for sustainable development initiatives.
• Utilized GIS spatial modeling to evaluate groundwater recharge rates and map retention pond placements for watershed management.
• Researched ecosystem impacts of invasive Eurasian Watermilfoil (EWM) to evaluate control and containment strategies.

Customer Service & Marine Sales Representative - Watercraft Sales Inc. - Three Lakes, WI

(1998 - 2008)

• Provided technical consultation and sales assistance for boaters, personal watercraft, accessories, and marine equipment.
• Guided clients through vessel selection based on waterbody specifications, passenger capacity, and performance requirements.
• Assisted with marine logistics, customer support, vessel safety equipment compliance, and seasonal inventory preparation.
• Maintained high customer satisfaction through clear product education and post-sale support.

Bartender / Professional Server - Black Forest, Johnny's Italian Steakhouse, Catch 22 Charhouse, The Curragh - WI & IL

(2014)

• Delivered high-level customer service in fast-paced environments, prioritizing guest satisfaction and conflict resolution.
• Managed point-of-sale cash transactions, bar inventory, and health/safety sanitation standards under strict operating procedures.

Youth Hockey Coach (Ages 7–12) - Northbrook Hockey - Northbrook, IL

(2013 - 2015)

• Designed on-ice technical drills focusing on skating mechanics, stick handling, puck control, and spatial awareness.
• Developed specialized off-ice, dry-land training programs to enhance core strength, agility, and injury prevention.

Team Member & Aquatic Performance Coordinator (Ages 3–50) - Aqua Devils Waterski Team - Three Lakes, WI

(1997 - 2007)

• Organized team practices to refine execution, form, and precision for complex multi-person water ski acts.
• Developed dry-land exercise routines to build balance and body awareness prior to behind-the-boat execution.
• Enforced strict aquatic safety and equipment protocols behind the towboat during high-speed multi-rider maneuvers.

Post-Baccalaureate Teaching - Earth & Space Science (Hydrogeology Emphasis) - University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire (2024-01 - 2024-01)

Wisconsin Teaching Licensure - Earth and Space Science (Grades 4–12) - University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire (2024-01)

Bachelor of Science - Environmental Conservation (Minor: Outdoor Recreation Leadership Management) - Northern Michigan University (2009-05)