In August, the Coalition welcomed Jeff Smith as development intern. The Coalition’s intern program is our way of connecting career resources and training to outdoor enthusiasts looking for a way to protect Washington’s natural legacy.
Jeff’s lifelong passion for the outdoors and education in environmental policy make him a great addition to the team.
Jeff was born and raised in Everett and has always considered the Puget Sound to be his home.
“I grew up kayaking and canoeing along the Snohomish River, hiking in the North Cascades, and riding my bike along Snohomish County’s interurban trails,” Jeff said. “I fell in love with the outdoors at an early age, and my education and career have consistently been guided by my childhood adventures outside.”
Jeff attended Western Washington University and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Planning and Environmental Policy from Huxley College of the Environment.
While in college, Jeff volunteered with the North Sound Baykeeper and RE Sources for Sustainable Communities, researching recent shoreline development trends in Whatcom County.
Jeff spent his summer teaching windsurfing on Bellingham’s Lake Whatcom and preparing applications for law school.
“While at WWU I felt drawn toward environmental policy and regulation,” Jeff said. “And I’m hoping that a career in Environmental Law will create opportunities to help protect areas like Washington State, where wildlife and outdoor recreation are such an important part of community identities.”
Jeff has quickly contributed to the Coalition’s development team by jumping into breakfast planning, and is looking forward to promoting Washington’s parks, wildlife, and working lands over the next few months.
In January, the Coalition will be seeking another paid development intern. Interested applicants should contact Sarah@WildlifeRecreation.org