Laura Owens, a 2020 Rock Energy Cooperative (REC) Scholarship winner, graduated from Carroll University in 2024 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Behavior and a minor in Natural Resource Management. (She graduated from Milton High School in 2020.) Since graduating from college, the former REC scholarship winner has been busy working locally in some of the co-op's service areas.

Above and below, Laura Owens works out in the field as part of her position with the Wisconsin DNR. Owens graduated from Milton High School in 2020 and she is a former Rock Energy Scholarship winner.

"Through my work in wildlife management, I help care for public lands and the natural resources that are important to my community," said Owens. "In Rock County, hunting and outdoor recreation are an important piece of culture and provide opportunities for people to connect with nature and continue traditions passed down through generations. I am fortunate to work in the county I grew up in and call home, allowing me to give back to the communities that helped shape me. In many ways, I am now helping protect the same natural resources that inspired me as a child—the little country girl who loved catching frogs, exploring outside, and learning about the world around her."

Owens currently works as a Wildlife Biologist/Technician for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. She works in wildlife management for Rock and Green Counties. 
“My role primarily involves coordinating Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) monitoring efforts for south central Wisconsin, in addition to supporting habitat management efforts such as prescribed burning, invasive species removal, and waterfowl banding,” Owens said.
She said that, long term, she would like to move into a job that combines natural resource management with education and outreach.
“I've always enjoyed teaching others about wildlife and the importance of our natural resources,” said Owens.
Before entering the working world, Owens said she had a great college experience. She said she built meaningful relationships with professors whose mentorship helped shape her career path. She believes that college gave her a strong foundation by teaching her scientific principles, critical thinking, and technical skills. 
“My internships and seasonal positions really allowed me to apply those concepts in real-world settings,” said Owens. “Together, these experiences prepared me well to enter my current profession while continuing to grow within it.”

"When I graduated from college in 2024, I was able to say that I paid for my own college! Rock Energy's scholarship played a huge part in that. I truly appreciate your kindness and admire the dedication Rock Energy has for its community."

— Laura Owens, 2020 Rock Energy Scholarship Recipient