Where Are They Now? Alumni Highlight: Anna Knutson

What kind of work did you do when you were in the Corps?

Trail maintenance!

Where are you now?

I am a Tree Climber Trainee with the Davey Tree Expert Co. here in St. Paul MN.

What kind of work do you do?

Every day is different! Some days I am climbing trees to prune them and some days I am working with pole pruning tools, stump grinding, or even up in a bucket truck working on trees.

Were there any particularly memorable or challenging experiences during your time in the Corps?

I got the special opportunity to work on a wilderness crew. We went to Isle Royale to do trail work and it was an unforgettable experience.

What was the most personally meaningful part of your experience with Conservation Corps?

Getting to work in the Summer Youth Corps program was a gift.

How did the experience shape your career/life?

Working at CCMI really helped me solidify my move towards working in the outdoor industry. I had previously worked in social work/crisis intervention fields and was looking for a change.

How did you use your education award?

I haven’t used it yet!

What advice would you offer to a current member serving in Conservation Corps Minnesota & Iowa?

Take the leap and apply for a position!

What did you do immediately after your time in the Corps?

Started my arboriculture career.