CLC 3 McKenna Varela
The Climate Leadership Certificate provides the training and experience needed for students to apply a variety of skills to critical work in climate action and justice, as well as other vital areas of sustainability, including social justice, economic vitality, and well-being. Throughout the one-and-a-half year program, students engage in curriculum targeted at sustainability literacy, planning, and leadership, while also participating in hands-on practicum work with a variety of sustainability organizations in Whatcom County and the Methow Valley.
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McKenna Varela
I hope to become a Fisheries Biologist after I graduate from WWU! I have spent summers working as a Technician, and hope to be promoted into a more permanent position either here in Washington or back home in Alaska. I want to primarily focus on anadromous fish, particularly on the species of Pacific salmon. This will involve monitoring escapement numbers, giving input on the regulations of the area, and conducting surveys throughout the year. This career path will allow me to flag if certain populations are declining and to take protective actions when needed.
I'm really looking forward to getting to know the other members of my cohort! I believe by working together as a team, we can strengthen the skills we already possess and can create a positive change wherever we go. I'm hoping to collaborate with other people in the field and do a lot of networking! This certificate program will also help me become a more effective leader, which will benefit not only myself, but also those who I work with. I hope to learn about my leadership style, and to get out of my comfort zone with it, a bit. I'm very excited to see what other cohort members take from this experience, and I hope to work closely with them throughout this opportunity.