My Park Story: Clinton Talley

Paddling Lake Powell

Clinton Talley/NPS

Where are you from? What was your pathway to the National Park Service (NPS)?

I am originally from Mead, Washington area. My pathway started going to Glacier National Park in Montana as an 8-year-old kid. I clearly remember an Interpretation Ranger give a talk at the campground amphitheater saying, “You might not see the wildlife, but they see you.” I was in enthralled! As a young adult I took a few permanent and seasonal jobs for CUA’s or NPS concessioners around the West to keep myself around the NPS and the beautiful parks we protect. This took me all over the world including to parks in Alaska, California, and Utah.
In my early 30’s I had a realization that I needed to go back and finish my bachelor’s degree in Business Management. As a working professional in the private sector, I took online class with University of Phoenix Online, so that I could still have some flexibility and balance of my time.Once I graduate with my bachelor’s degree my wife’s job moved us to Baltimore, Maryland where I started working for a private commercial tile distribution and sales company. My job was to data management and help sell a catalog of about 800 rolling ongoing possible projects over a 5-year span. This is where I found what I excelled at, data management and systems management. Though I learned a great skill set and had a great team I worked with, I did not find the work I was doing to align with internal need to work on tangible topics that I am passionate about. My wife’s job then moved us to Page, Arizona. It took learning how to write a government resume, applying, and persistence. After a year and half, I found my opportunity to get my foot in the door to get into the NPS with a carrier in FMSS as a Facilities Management Systems Specialist for Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and Rainbow Bridge National Monument. I have been at this park now for three years.

What interested you in the NPS?

I wanted to work in a field that allowed me to make an impact as a public servant and to be able to see my impact on a park that I care about to make better for now and the future.

What is your job at Glen Canyon?

I am a Facilities Management Systems Specialist with duties in project management and project writing.

What do you find most rewarding about your job?

Working in a field that allowed me to make an impact as a public servant and to be able to see my impact on a park that I care about to make better for now and the future.

What advice do you have for youth and young adults thinking about a career at NPS?

Learn how to write a government resume. Do not sell yourself sort on your skill set. Be open to moving around to find your opportunities. Be persistence in your approach. Find a job you are passionate about.

What are you hobbies?

Travel and Photography

Favorite memory from your job

Flying in the park Plane for the first time and see it all from the air.

Clinton and his wife Nicci gaze up at the Milkey Way over Glen Canyon.

Clinton Talley/NPS