Chelsey Whenham
Summary
Environmental engagement and conservation professional specializing in wildlife biology, ecological research, environmental education, citizen science, and sustainable tourism. Experienced in developing engaging educational programs, translating complex scientific information for diverse audiences, and coordinating conservation projects, community partnerships, and outdoor learning initiatives. Brings strong skills in project coordination, stakeholder engagement, digital communications, and collaborative leadership. Dedicated to advancing conservation and environmental stewardship in British Columbia, with a particular interest in marine ecosystems, coastal conservation, and expedition-based environmental education.
Overview
1
1
Certification
2027
2027
years of professional experience
Work History
Environmental Educator & Elementary Teacher
School District No. 20
Kootenay-Columbia, BC
2018 - Current
- Designed and delivered inquiry-based environmental education programs focused on biodiversity, ecological stewardship, climate change, and citizen science.
- Led sustainability initiatives focused on composting, recycling, waste reduction, native planting and invasive species education to promote environmental awareness and stewardship.
- Facilitated interactive presentations on environmental topics, fostering student engagement and a commitment to sustainability.
- Established partnerships with local organizations like Wildsight, Columbia Basin Environmental Education Network, Central Kootenay Invasive Species Society, Indigenous elders and local businesses to support authentic learning experiences.
- Scheduled and coordinated field trips, outdoor activities, and school-wide initiatives with community volunteers and presenters, enhancing student engagement and real-world learning experiences.
- Utilized Google Workspace, Canva and various communication platforms to produce educational materials and digital communications such as newsletters and social media updates.
- Maintained and managed professional communications with multiple stakeholders through email and other channels, demonstrating strong written communication while ensuring timely responses and attention to detail.
- Managed shared Google Drives, spreadsheets and digital records, for collaborative planning and administrative reporting.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to advocate for student success while coordinating supports, resources, and assessments.
Field Technician
Alberta Biodiversity Monitoring Program
Alberta
05.2007 - 09.2007
- Conducted biodiversity surveys including breeding bird, vegetation, wetland, amphibian, ecological site classification, and habitat measurement assessments to support ecological research and conservation efforts.
- Collected, verified, and maintained ecological field data using standardized monitoring protocols, ensuring accurate reporting and supporting long-term research and environmental management objectives.
- Utilized GPS, maps, compass, aerial imagery, and field navigation techniques to navigate and operate safely in remote environments, ensuring efficient data collection.
Wildlife Viewing Guide
Vail Resorts
Whistler Blackcomb, BC
- Conducted educational wildlife viewing experiences for diverse international audiences, merging scientific interpretation with engaging storytelling to enhance conservation awareness.
- Interpreted scientific concepts on bear ecology and habitat conservation, delivering accessible presentations that increased visitor appreciation of natural environments.
- Promoted responsible wildlife viewing practices, educating visitors on ethical interactions to support conservation objectives and reduce human impacts.
Adventure Guide
Myra Canyon Adventure Park
Kelowna, British Columbia
- Guided small groups through outdoor environments, delivering safe, educational, and engaging experiences while fostering appreciation for local ecosystems and natural history.
- Conducted pre-trip equipment inspections and ongoing safety assessments, ensuring operational readiness and minimizing risk throughout excursions.
- Communicated technical safety procedures and environmental information through engaging orientations and interpretive presentations, enhancing guest confidence and overall experience.
- Monitored changing weather, terrain, and group dynamics to make informed operational decisions, adapting plans while maintaining safety, professionalism, and guest satisfaction.
- Built positive relationships with guests through exceptional customer service, effective communication, and a calm, solutions-focused approach in dynamic outdoor settings.
Veterinary Technician
Apex Animal Hospital
Helena, Montana
2011 - 2012
- Managed detailed clinical documentation, diagnostic records, and client communications with a high degree of accuracy, supporting regulatory compliance and efficient coordination across the care team.
- Coordinated diagnostic procedures and treatment preparation in a fast-paced environment, consistently maintaining safety standards while adapting to changing priorities.
- Maintained meticulous electronic records and laboratory documentation, ensuring reliable information management and seamless communication among multidisciplinary team members.
- Assisted in the treatment and rehabilitation of domestic and wild animals in partnership with wildlife rehabilitation organizations, contributing to successful patient recovery while supporting conservation-focused initiatives.
- Recognized for exceptional attention to detail, sound judgment, and effective communication while balancing multiple priorities in a safety-critical environment.
Field Technician
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks & Montana Natural Heritage Program
Montana
- Conducted standardized field surveys of amphibians, reptiles, bats, and small mammals across Montana, generating reliable biodiversity data to support wildlife conservation and long-term ecological research.
- Collected, verified, and maintained field data using standardized monitoring protocols, ensuring accurate reporting and supporting long-term research and environmental management objectives.
- Collaborated with private landowners and project partners to coordinate site access, strengthening stakeholder relationships and facilitating successful field operations.
Field Technician
Foothills Research Institute & Northern Continental Grizzly Bear DNA Projects
Alberta and Montana
2004 - 2009
- Contributed to Alberta government's 2010 grizzly bear status designation change to 'threatened.'
- Established and monitored wildlife DNA sampling stations, providing critical data for conservation efforts.
- Collected biological samples while maintaining precise scientific records for research integrity.
- Utilized GPS, compass navigation, and ArcGIS for safe operation in remote field environments.
- Assisted in vegetation assessments and wildlife habitat monitoring for ecosystem evaluation.
- Coordinated with private landowners to secure access and foster collaborative stakeholder relationships.
- Collaborated with government agencies to enhance conservation efforts and establish partnerships.
Education
Bachelor of Education - Elementary Education
University of British Columbia Okanagan
Kelowna, BCBachelor of Science - Wildlife Biology
University of Montana
Missoula, MTRenewable Resource Management -
Lethbridge College
Lethbridge, ABSkills
- Google Workspace, Microsoft Office Suite, Dropbox, Canva, macOS, Weebly
- Communication and social media platforms
- Navigation tools and Google Earth
- Scientific data collection and ecological monitoring
- Scientific and educational reporting
- Digital file and spreadsheet management
- Remote operational capabilities
- ATV operation and helicopter travel
- Environmental education
- Citizen science initiatives
- Wildlife conservation
- Team collaboration
- Stakeholder and customer relations
Certification
- Pleasure Craft Operator Card
- Flat Water Canoe Paddling Levels A–D
- Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG)
- Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS)
- All Terrain Vehicle Safety & Best Riding Practices
- Bear Awareness
- Restricted Radio Operators License- Aeronautical
Conservation and Citizen Science
- Participated in citizen science initiatives including the BC Marsh Monitoring Program and Kootenay Native Plant Society Community Bee Nest Count through bird identification, ecological monitoring, transect establishment, and standardized data collection.
- Supported ecological restoration through invasive species removal and native planting with the Central Kootenay Invasive Species Society and the Hardisty Creek Restoration Project.
- Delivered public bear awareness presentations and promoted human-wildlife coexistence through volunteer work with the Wind River Bear Institute, including educational outreach at the Pemberton Music Festival.
- Presented research on outdoor education and environmental stewardship at the University of British Columbia Okanagan Guided Reflective Inquiry Project Conference.
- Researched, analyzed, and and delivered an academic presentation examining the effects of wildlife capture on grizzly bears, synthesizing scientific literature and communicating findings to faculty and peers.
- Coordinated environmental projects and learning opportunities connecting students with scientists, biologists, conservation organizations, and Indigenous community members.
Timeline
Field Technician
Alberta Biodiversity Monitoring Program
05.2007 - 09.2007
Environmental Educator & Elementary Teacher
School District No. 20
2018 - Current
Wildlife Viewing Guide
Vail Resorts
Adventure Guide
Myra Canyon Adventure Park
Veterinary Technician
Apex Animal Hospital
2011 - 2012
Field Technician
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks & Montana Natural Heritage Program
Field Technician
Foothills Research Institute & Northern Continental Grizzly Bear DNA Projects
2004 - 2009
Bachelor of Education - Elementary Education
University of British Columbia Okanagan
Bachelor of Science - Wildlife Biology
University of Montana
Renewable Resource Management -
Lethbridge College