Reflections on the Summer at Trail Creek Ranch
This summer, my internship at Trail Creek Ranch in Wilson, Wyoming, offered me, not just a job but, hands-on experience, personal growth, and professional development. Nestled in the breathtaking valley surrounded by the majestic Teton mountains, Trail Creek was a unique opportunity to immerse myself in both environmental stewardship and the work of small businesses.
From day one, the tasks at the ranch were pretty diverse. My responsibilities ranged from the mundane—watering plants and shoveling horse poop—to the more involved, staining barns and bailing 40-pound bales of hay. Each chore contributed to a deeper understanding of the ranch's operations and a stronger connection with the land. Among these, bailing hay stood out as a favorite of mine. Not only was it a physically demanding job but it also symbolized the collective effort of the Trail Creek team, strengthening my appreciation for the hard teamwork behind sustaining a ranch.
One of the most impactful skills I developed was the application of herbicides, which tied directly into my coursework in environmental stewardship. This practical experience solidified my knowledge of INAG106 and gave me the confidence to call this task a skill of mine. Additionally, my communication skills improved significantly. I was working very closely with my supervisors, Jules and Alex, learning the importance of clear and open communication. This skill will definitely benefit me in any future job.
My internship experience at Trail Creek Ranch was amazing. The ranch’s awesome history, combined with its status as a women-founded and women-run business, created a genuine and inspiring work environment. The close-knit team and the sense of community made every challenge feel rewarding. The camaraderie and shared commitment to the ranch’s goals added a layer of fulfillment that is often missing in larger, more corporate settings.
Reflecting on my time at Trail Creek, I now envision my ideal supervisor as someone like Jules; smart, kind, and supportive. Her approach to leadership, marked by humility and a genuine interest in my growth, set a high standard for future work environments. Jules described my role as “the right-hand man” to ranch operations.
My time at Trail Creek Ranch not only provided practical skills and valuable insights into land management but also reinforced my appreciation for working in a small business setting. As I move forward, the lessons learned and the skills gained will serve as a solid foundation for my future career in environmental stewardship and/or something completely different.
