Chris Cruz
I serve as faculty and former Department Chair (22 years) for Park Management, Regenerative Agriculture, Geospatial and Unmanned Aircraft Technology. I have taught at West Valley College in California for the last 26 years. Before that, I worked full-time for the National Park Service for 18 years and another 10 years seasonally as a Resource Protection Ranger, I have been fortunate to work in 12 national park units. Some of the positions I have held in the NPS, include SAR-EMS Officer for Yosemite NP, Law Enforcement Specialist and Operations Supervisor- Haleakala NP, Law Enforcement Specialist, Lake Roosevelt NRA, Backcountry Ranger Grand Canyon NP, Backcountry Ranger/Patrol- Lassen Volcanic NP, Patrol Ranger, Grand Tetons and Big Bend NP. I have a BA in Spanish Culture and Civilization from Indiana University and an MA in Environmental Studies from Prescott College, Az. I was a CO-PI on a National Science Foundation Project called iGETT Remote Sensing Education. I currently serve as a senior team member of the team for the National Geotech Center with a focus on UAS Technology. I am an FAA Part 107 certified Remote Pilot and maintain a GISP Certification. I love to hike and explore our public lands and share those experiences with family, friends and students.