Ryan Cole—2018 Engineering Technology Applications Person of the Year
Ryan Cole is an engineering geologist in the Pacific Northwest Region’s Sub-Regional Engineering Organization (SREO) based in northwestern Oregon. In addition to providing technical engineering geology support, he is also the emergency relief for federally owned roads (ERFO) coordinator for the SREO, the hazardous materials (HazMat) emergency response coordinator and rock resource manager for the Mt. Hood National Forest and Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area (CRGNSA), and a Pacific Northwest Region burned area emergency response (BAER) specialist.
Ryan is recognized for outstanding leadership in providing engineering geology support to the four units of the SREO throughout 2018. He led the engineering response to the Eagle Creek Fire, where his multi-agency coordination and application of geohazard mitigation technology helped protect the iconic Multnomah Falls Lodge ahead of schedule. During 2018, he attended the Pacific Northwest Region Middle Leader Development Program and also completed a 120-day detail as district ranger for the Clackamas River Ranger District on the Mt. Hood National Forest. Despite these additional commitments, he managed to complete his assigned engineering program of work ahead of schedule. Regional Forester Jim Peña recognized Ryan for going above and beyond during the 2017 BAER season and 2018 BAER implementation. CRGNSA Manager Lynn Burditt also recognized Ryan for meaningful contributions in responding to the impacts of the Eagle Creek Incident, noting that his efforts throughout 2018 provided a significant contribution to the overall success of the SREO and the Pacific Northwest Region.
Ryan began his Federal career with the U.S. Army after graduating high school in 2000. He volunteered for the Special Operations Command as a Ranger in the 1st Battalion, 75th Infantry Regiment. He completed four tours in Afghanistan and one tour in Iraq in support of “Operation Enduring Freedom” and “Operation Iraqi Freedom.” After leaving the Army, Ryan attended Portland State University while working for the U.S. Geological Survey and earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in geology. He began his Forest Service career with the Washington Office Minerals and Geology Management Staff Leasable Resources Group during 2011. He has worked on the Gifford Pinchot and Coronado National Forests, and joined the SREO during 2016.
In his free time, Ryan enjoys spending time with his family and friends. He loves the outdoors (particularly National Forest System lands) and enjoys whitewater kayaking, backcountry snowboarding, mountain biking, solo backpacking, and elk hunting.
