Podcasts

Season 3 | Young Professionals in Forestry and Natural Resources | Episode 22

#57 | Let the experts be the experts

January 3, 2018 | Vince Keeler

Vince Keeler is a forester, veteran of the US Forest Service, and now Director of Forestry for the Center for Heirs’ Property Preservation in Charleston, South Carolina. Vince has 15 years of experience as a forester after earning his Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science & Natural Resource Management at Tuskegee University. On the show, Vince talks about his career path, learnings, and advice, explaining at one point why it’s important to let your team do what they do best. Also, when there is disagreement, he’s learned to get on the ground and look at the situation with your colleagues to share perspectives and find common ground.

Key Takeaways:

[:50] A message from Leadership Nature.

[1:35] A quick intro about Vince’s background.

[2:45] How did Vince become interested in forestry?

[5:22] What was Vince’s first forestry job like?

[5:53] Vince’s first supervisory job was managing two people only one year younger than himself!

[8:35] Vince was happy fighting wildfires because he was able to move to different states and see more of the U.S. It was very rewarding work.

[9:47] Fast forward seven years later, Vince ended up becoming a Timber Management Officer and oversaw a staff of 13.

[13:40] How can you become a better expert in your field?

[16:33] Vince says that partnerships are a big deal when you want to get something done on the ground.

[17:17] What does Vince currently do for the Center for Heirs’ Property Preservation?

[19:38] Vince shares a story of how his organization uniquely helps landowners, families, and the community.

[23:15] Vince is looking to hire a forester, so check out his email below!

[22:55] What has been the most fun about Vince’s career?

[24:40] Vince wishes he could jump in a time machine and fast forward to the future to see how the next generation of landowners pass down what they’ve learned to their families.

[25:55] What kinds of mentors has Vince had over the years?

[30:20] Experienced foresters, you’ve got to take the time to write down your expertise so others can learn from your your wisdom.

[32:00] What kinds of things can the forestry profession improve upon?

[36:00] What does Vince wish he’d learned sooner?

[37:30] Vince recommends reading the Bible, because there are so many great lessons and inspiring messages there.

Mentioned in This Episode:
www.Heirsproperty.org
Email Vince: vkeeler@heirsproperty.org
www.LeadershipNature.com