As a recreation and parks administration major at EKU, an internship at Red River Gorge fueled an interesting career path for Park Ranger Jordan Gibbs, ’09. Following graduation, several seasonal positions took him around the country, while he built an impressive resume and skill set. Among the highlights, the London, Kentucky, native patrolled trails of more than 80 miles in Colorado’s Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest. He fought wildfires in Montana, performed historical interpretation of 18th century life in Virginia and promoted bear safety at the Daniel Boone National Forest.
With his extensive experience, Gibbs landed a permanent, year-round position in a competitive field as a park ranger at the Obed Wild & Scenic River in Tennessee. He works in visitor services, where he shares information, develops nature and history programs and leads a Junior Ranger children’s fishing program.
He likes helping children and their families get into recreational fishing, as well as meeting people from all over the world. And with a lifelong reverence for the outdoors and history, his position allows him to pursue both his passions. “I love what I do,” he says.