It's Their Job: Jim Whary

PNT Correspondent Blake Downs

Name: Jim Whary

Job: Park Manager at Oasis State Park

Background: After serving in the U.S. Army for 20 years, Whary moved with his wife from the East Coast and started training on the job at Oasis.

Time on the job: 14 years

What does your job entail? I’m responsible for managing, directing, supervising and development of Oasis State Park. I also oversee all programs, maintenance, the budget, etc.

What is a typical day on the job like for you? I begin work around 7:30 in the morning. It tends to be more administrative, which includes making sure jobs get completed out in the field and insuring everyone’s doing their job.

Why did you choose this job? This is a little boy’s dream. It took 20 years in the military to get here, though.

What type of training, if any, do you need for your job? Now they are looking for people with a bachelor’s degree in wildlife and fisheries science, perhaps in other areas as well, like parks and recreation.

What do you enjoy most about your job? Meeting people who come in from all over the world and being able to give back to the communities by providing a safe, clean place to relax.