Biology

In December of 2017, Joshua Gray graduated from Tennessee Tech University with his Bachelor’s degree in Wildlife and Fisheries Science with a concentration in Conservation Biology. Faculty member Dr. Shawn Krosnick got a chance to reconnect with Joshua at the GSMNP Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage a few months ago, and we’re excited to share what he’s been up to!

His first NPS/ACE internship in Spring 2018 led him to Homestead National Historical Park in Beatrice, Nebraska, where he educated visitors in the Education and Heritage Centers, as well as at the Freeman School. His second NPS/ACE internship in Spring of 2019 brought him to the Sugarlands Visitor Center in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. In addition to sharing his natural, cultural, and historical knowledge in the Visitor Center, he led interpretive programs for visitors attending the Synchronous Firefly Festival on June 1.

The following June (2019), he started his first seasonal position with the NPS at Gateway National Recreation Area in Middletown, New Jersey as a Fee-Collection Ranger before returning to Sugarlands Visitor Center for May 2020. Each May between 2021 and 2023, he took on seasonal Ranger positions at Cades Cove in the GSMNP. After each season with the NPS, he worked for Smokies Life (previously Great Smoky Mountains Association), assisting with sales and providing park information to visitors at the front desk.

Now, as of June 2024, he has a permanent, year-round position with the NPS at Obed National Scenic River. When it comes to Tennessee Tech, Joshua said, “My education from Tennessee Tech has helped me tremendously with my career in the NPS so far, and I'm sure it will continue to do so.” We’re sure it will, too! Way to go, Joshua!