Conservation law enforcement major Eliza Wheeler ’27 was chosen for the Maine Forest Service Helitack Summer Internship over the summer. The 850-hour internship allowed Eliza to join the quick-response team that deploys, by helicopter, to wildfires in remote areas across Maine. She also completed multiple National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) certifications in wildland fire, incident command, and firefighting training.
“This internship related to criminal justice because I got a front row seat of a side of law enforcement that is not widely known about,” said Eliza.
Eliza chose Thomas College for its unique 3+1 Conservation Law Enforcement program. Courses in ecology, environmental science, and law enforcement helped prepare her for her internship, where she was able to apply concepts learned across her coursework.
“I am so grateful for every opportunity the Maine Forest Service has given to me to explore future careers in the criminal justice and wildland fire fields. Because of this summer internship, I now have a crystal-clear career path I want to pursue. I have gotten a plethora of hands-on work hours, numerous training opportunities, and created many professional work connections,” she said.
This valuable experience will allow Eliza to build on her training and professional connections, to pursue her dream of becoming a Maine Forest Ranger when she graduates.