100: If We’re Not Learning from Our Mistakes, That’s the Real Failure

Byron Hart is a Forester and Fire Expert for the U.S. Forest Service and serves as the Fire Management Officer on the Osceola National Forest in Florida. After graduating from Florida A&M University and the University of Florida, Byron got his start as a Forester Trainee in the Ocala National Forest and served in a number of fire positions. On the show, Byron discusses how he got introduced to forestry, some of the challenges of being a leader, and how to empower your staff so that they take ownership of their work.

 

Key Takeaways:

[:55] A message from Leadership Nature.

[1:40] A quick intro about Byron’s background.

[3:25] How did Byron get into forestry and natural resources?

[6:25] How did Byron first learn about the forest service and pick a career path?

[12:30] What does the fire management position consist of?

[15:30] Byron shares the leadership experience you get when you join the fire service.

[17:25] What other types of career position has Byron taken on over the year?

[21:20] Forest service has a lot of different avenues you can explore.

[24:00] What is Byron most proud of in his career?

[26:45] Did Byron have any challenges while transitioning into a leadership role?

[30:15] What kind of mentors has Byron had over the years?

[31:44] How was Byron’s hotshot crew structured and what did they do?

[34:45] As a person of color, has Byron experienced any personal difficulties or challenges?

[36:50] How can the forest service be more proactive in attracting more diversity?

[39:30] Empower your employees by having them take pride and ownership in what they’re doing.

[42:00] What types of skills do people need to learn to be a good leader?

[45:45] Byron offers advice for young students looking to get into natural resources.

[49:45] Tell your story and tell people why the forest service makes you happy. It might inspire somebody to join!

[54:25] Lead from the heart and have passion for what you do.

 

Mentioned in This Episode:

Fs.usda.gov/osceola

LEAD... for God’s Sake! A Parable for Finding the Heart of Leadership, by Todd G. Gongwer