In this episode of the American Conservation Experience, host Elyse Cogburn discusses ACE's Crew Program with Adam Scherm, ACE's National Director of Crew Programs, and Kate Sutcliffe, ACE alumna and board member. They delve into the structure and operations of conservation crews, the diverse environmental projects undertaken, and the personal growth and career paths inspired by participation in ACE.

The episode highlights the critical role conservation crews play in supporting land management and facilitating public access to natural spaces, and it stresses the importance of resilience, teamwork, and passion for conservation.

Welcome to the first episode of the American Conservation Experience (ACE) podcast. Join your hosts, staff members Elyse Cogburn and Dave Bastian, as they introduce you to our organization, its mission, and the incredible work our corps members do on public lands across the country.

In this episode, we'll dive into the origins of ACE, founded in Flagstaff, Arizona, in 2004, as well as the overall corps movement. The episode also highlights the two key programs that define our work: the CREW program, which focuses on meaningful hands-on conservation projects like trail building and habitat restoration, and the EPIC program, which helps emerging professionals build careers through specialized internships with leading agencies.

You'll get a glimpse into how our corps members and staff work alongside partners like the National Park Service and the Bureau of Land Management to protect and restore America's natural and cultural resources. We'll also set the stage for future episodes, where you'll hear directly from the alumni, current members, and others who are shaping the future of conservation, one project at a time.

Our national parks, forests, and public lands are more than just iconic American landscapes—they’re part of our country’s legacy and require care and attention for future generations. Across the country, hard-working young adults are stepping up to lend a hand.

In this podcast, hosts Dave Bastian and Elyse Cogburn take you into the field with American Conservation Experience (ACE), a leading nonprofit conservation corps where emerging professionals tackle real-world projects that improve trails, restore public lands, and create resilient habitats benefiting our shared outdoor spaces.

Tune in to hear inspiring stories of how ACE empowers the next generation, building crucial hands-on skills, strengthening communities, and ensuring our shared outdoor spaces thrive for all to enjoy.

Subscribe now so you don’t miss an episode.

Episode One drops on September 4th.

To learn more about ACE, visit usaconservation.org