Daniel began a career in conservation and education way back in 1997, teaching sailing on a small lake in the Midwest. Over the next twenty-some years, Daniel has helped millions (ok, probably not that many) of young people become leaders in conservation and environmental stewardship. As the Chief Program Officer, Daniel helps create dynamic education programs, enhances the corps member experience, and is an invaluable snack connoisseur.

Daniel grew up in Wisconsin and moved between coasts, working as in conservation and science education. He has led research programs in Panamá, taught high school students in Oakland how to dig a latrine, and, most recently, helped build VYCC’s watershed program. He and his wife, Jen, have also spent several years living out of cars, bikes, boats, and backpacks, but always seem to come back to Vermont where the maple syrup, and people, are the sweetest.

Top Vermont experience: swimming in a river, after a long bike ride, but before eating a huge creemee. Can’t be beat.

Pronouns: he/him

Daniel.Schmidt@VYCC.org | (802) 434.3969