​GEM Corps would like to welcome the newest member to our team! Isaac Sanchez is our newest Staff Scientist and New Mexico Program Coordinator. Isaac is from El Paso Tx. He has a vast interest in nature and animals. He enjoys exploring mountains, forests, and rivers while learning about the ecosystems and species native to each area.  STEM education is important to Isaac because he strongly believes that those who lead in the STEM fields are the people who truly shape the future for not just humans but the Earth as a whole. Welcome aboard, Isaac!

How did you hear about this service opportunity?
I found this opportunity on Indeed.com
What do you plan to accomplish during your service term with GEM?
I plan to grow as both an individual and a professional and assist in locating and safely closing as many abandoned mines as possible.
Do you plan to continue your education? If so, what programs or school are you looking into and what is the highest degree you plan to earn?
Yes, I plan on continuing my education to get a master's in either biology, environmental science, or geology.
Have you had any other internship or service opportunities before this? If so, how do you believe internships have benefited you so far?
I had the pleasure of working with multiple professors who are active in their fields, and they have passed on to me their knowledge of fauna, flora, and rock composition which I know will greatly assist me in my duties.

We look forward to keeping up with the many adventures Isaac will share along the way. Make sure to stay up to date at www.gemenvironmental.org.

​GEM Corps would like to welcome the newest member to our team! Allie Shedleski is our new AmeriCorps New Mexico AML Team Leader. Allie was born and raised in Maryland but has lived in Ohio, Utah, Washington, and now New Mexico! She has always enjoyed hiking and since moving out west she has taken up backpacking and rock climbing! Allie feels that STEM is essential because “it helps us understand and protect the world around us, from us”. She has a strong passion for nature and conservation. Allie is doing her part for our amazing planet and encouraging others to do the same. Welcome aboard, Allie!

How did you hear about this service opportunity?
Instagram
Please provide a brief description highlighting your work/area of focus.
I am the NM Abandoned Mine Land Team Leader, the position title does most of the explaining. I will help map abandoned mine remnants on state and federal land in New Mexico.
What do you plan to accomplish during your service term with GEM?
I hope to expand as a scientist and gain field experience with GIS. Also, I hope to strengthen my leadership abilities.
What are your career goals?
As I move forward professionally, I would like to gain new and diverse experience in the conservation field. In hopes that it leads to a permanent position in the outdoors.
Do you plan to continue your education? If so, what programs or school are you looking into and what is the highest degree you plan to earn?
I have a Bachelor of Science in Geology. At this point in time, I don't have plans to return to school.
Have you had any other internship or service opportunities before this? If so, how do you believe internships have benefited you so far?
I worked with AmeriCorps for the American Conservation Experience. It was a lot of fun and challenged me physically and mentally in a lot of ways. It definitely helped me acquire professional skills that directly led to me getting a job as a Wildland Firefighter and to me securing this job as well.

To learn more about AmeriCorps click here.