Each year, Virginia State Parks honors the veterans who continue their service in a new way, protecting our natural and historic resources and helping visitors connect with the outdoors.  

The dedication, leadership and teamwork veterans bring to the park system strengthen communities and preserve the beauty of our public lands. 

We spoke with a few rangers who transitioned from military service to park life to learn how their experiences prepared them for their current roles. 

Brandon Brown 

Assistant Park Manager, Occoneechee State Park 

Virginia State Parks service: 2 years 

Military service: 20 years 

Branch: United States Air Force, Security Forces (3P071) 

How did you first learn about the opportunity to become a park ranger?  

Approximately nine months prior to my military retirement, I reached out to Virginia State Parks to express my interest in serving as a volunteer camp host. During this exchange of phone calls and emails between me and Professional Development Coordinator Eric Hougland, I was informed of an opportunity to participate in a SkillBridge internship. I eagerly embraced this chance, which facilitated my relocation from Alaska back to my home in Virginia. 

Why did you choose Virginia State Parks? 

I initially chose the Virginia State Parks SkillBridge opportunity because it offered my family and me the chance to return to our home state six months prior to my retirement. However, during the internship, I discovered a profound passion for Virginia State Parks and promptly applied for a full-time position that became available as my SkillBridge program was nearing its conclusion. 

What skills from your military service translated well into your role as a park ranger?  

ATV instructor and leadership skills. 

What has been the most rewarding aspect of becoming a park ranger?  

The most rewarding aspect of being a park ranger, in my view, is the opportunity to reflect on each day and take pride in our accomplishments. Although I have always cherished my service, there were times when the results were not as immediately apparent. 

What advice would you give to other veterans who might be considering a career with Virginia State Parks?  

Transitioning from active duty to civilian life could have been quite stressful if I hadn’t discovered Virginia State Parks and its SkillBridge opportunity. I’ve already informed several of my friends who are still serving about this fantastic chance within Virginia State Parks and our SkillBridge program. I want to give a HUGE shoutout to Eric Hougland and his team; they are truly “second to none.” 

Jessica German 

Manager, Virginia State Parks Ranger Conservation Corps  

Virginia State Parks service: 4 years 

Military service: 26 years 

Branch: United States Air Force, Armament Systems (2W191) 

How did you first learn about the opportunity to become a park ranger, and can you tell us more about your career path with Virginia State Parks? 

I learned about park ranger opportunities through the SkillBridge program, which I started at York River State Park. After SkillBridge, I was hired as a volunteer and special events manager and went on to be the AmeriCorps Eastern Program manager.  

In 2023, I became a professional development assistant, and now, I am the RCC program manager. 

What skills from your military service translated well into your role as a park ranger?  

Leadership, mentoring, public service, maintenance/safety standards and world experience all around.  

What has been the most rewarding aspect of becoming a park ranger?  

What brings me the greatest joy is witnessing the growth of our rangers. They are some of the most incredible people in the world. Day in and day out, they devote themselves to helping visitors, conserving nature and educating others. Their dedication inspires me deeply every day. The real reward comes from learning about their journeys and understanding what inspires them. 

What advice would you give to other veterans who might be considering a career with Virginia State Parks?  

If you are currently serving in the military, don’t hesitate to reach out with your SkillBridge questions; for veterans looking to join our parks family, we would be thrilled to have you with us. I can’t wait to share my journey with you. Embracing life in a park can truly transform your perspective and spark incredible personal growth and development. 

How do you think veterans can make an impact in the state park system?  

I believe that parks and veterans share a deep connection, as they embody many of the same values that unite all branches of service.  

As a member of the USAF, one of our guiding principles is “Excellence in ALL We Do,” emphasizing the importance of pursuing the highest standards in everything we undertake, whether it’s in training, operations or how we conduct ourselves personally.  

This shared commitment aligns beautifully with the core values of Virginia State Parks, which makes veterans an essential part of our parks’ mission.  

Together with our dedicated park rangers, veterans contribute meaningfully to the spirit and purpose of these natural spaces, enriching the experience for all who visit. 

Brian Wright 

Volunteer Coordinator, Pocahontas State Park 

Virginia State Parks service: 2 years 

Military service: 30.6 years 

Branch: Army (15 Z Aircraft Maintenance Senior Sergeant) 

How did you first learn about the opportunity to become a park ranger?  

I knew that once I returned from deployment in 2022, I would be retiring. One day, while doing PT, I was listening to a podcast called Mountain & Prairie, hosted by conservationist Ed Roberson. He shared how he got started in his line of work, and I found his story inspiring. It sparked an interest in me to pursue something similar.  

Having been a member of the Friends of Pocahontas State Park for years, I began volunteering more actively at the park and with other organizations to expand my network. During a virtual Friends meeting, I learned there was an opening for a volunteer coordinator at the park. I applied and was fortunate to be hired for the position. 

Why did you choose Virginia State Parks? 

At the leadership level I was at in the military, I was constantly moving at full speed, going 100 mph all the time. When I first started working at the park, I didn’t realize it, but as a veteran, being outdoors in nature and working with volunteers was exactly what I needed. I had served for 30 years, and now this chapter of my life was for me.  

What skills from your military service translated well into your role as a park ranger?  

Many of the skills I developed in the military translated seamlessly to my role as a park ranger. Goal setting, self-motivation, planning, communication, task delegation, logistics and interpersonal skills are just a few examples of how my military experience has proven invaluable in this new role. 

What has been the most rewarding aspect of becoming a park ranger?  

We all have a finite amount of time, and it’s important to choose how we spend it wisely. I find great joy in seeing and hearing about visitors and volunteers experiencing everything the park has to offer, whether they’re enjoying themselves recreating or finding fulfillment in giving back to the park and the community. 

What advice would you give to other veterans who might be considering a career with Virginia State Parks?  

Make volunteering part of your military transition. This allows you to build a meaningful network and become part of the community. It will also give you time to understand what is important to you. Find your why! Volunteering is one way to start a career with Virginia State Parks. But there are other ways, like the Army Career Skills Program and SkillBridge.  

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Continuing a legacy of service 

From enforcing safety rules to leading conservation projects, veterans play a vital role across Virginia’s 44 state parks. Their dedication ensures that these lands remain safe, welcoming and beautiful for generations to come. 

If you’d like to learn more about career opportunities at Virginia State Parks, please go to https://dcr.ar.virginia.gov/state-parks/careers.