Kilgren is New MCCD District Manager

"The Kristi from this picture (20 years ago) just got her dream job." That is how 2009 NMU alumna Kristina Kilgren began a LinkedIn update with the photo above, announcing that she recently accepted a position as district manager of the Marquette County Conservation District.

"What a gratifying new challenge this will be," she added. "Most people here don't know that I grew up on a farm, playing in the fields and forest, where conservation was just part of life."

Kilgren later earned an NMU associate of applied science degree with a concentration in biology, and spent three summers on U.S. Forest Service timber crews. She said she nearly transferred to get her degree in forestry.

"My career took a different route than expected back then, but this feels full-circle," Kilgren wrote. "I'll be using the skills and experience I've gained from a career in operations, administration and HR in a field that has always mattered to me."

According to a Marquette County Conservation District position description, the district manager oversees day-to-day operations, finances, programs, activities, grants and staff. The position requires excellent leadership and management skills, strong communication skills and the ability to manage the district's budget and finances.