LJSP Staffing News

It’s safe to describe Lake James State Park is a highly desirable landing spot for rangers and maintenance staff across the 41 parks and recreation areas in North Carolina. The proof is in the low employee turnover here: When you get to Lake James you stay at Lake James.

It is therefore rare and exciting to welcome a new member to the ranger ranks at the park. Wade Engels arrived for his first day on duty near the end of September and has quickly established himself as the park’s lead interpretation and education ranger, as well as volunteer coordinator.

It’s easy to put him in these important positions given Wade’s already impressive experience as a North Carolina state ranger. In 2011 Engels started his career as a ranger at Haw River State Park. He then served at Crowder’s Mountain State Park from 2014 to 2017. After returning to his native northern New Jersey in the interim, the team at Lake James happily welcomed Wade back to the state park family this year as its newest member.

“Wade Engels comes to us with so much park experience and accolades from former co-workers that it feels like winning the park ranger lottery,” said Park Superintendent Nora Coffey. “He brings a wide range of skills and expertise that will have immediate value in terms of park operations and visitor experience.”

“My family and I are very happy to be here,” Engels said. “Lake James is located in such perfect geography for access to outdoor activities on the water and in the mountains.”

In terms of how he views his duties and responsibilities Engels remarked, “The position of lead I&E ranger is especially worthwhile because it focuses on the importance of giving young people a positive mindset towards the outdoors. As volunteer coordinator, my goal will be to put people on tasks and assignments that give them the most satisfaction, while maximizing their skills to help the park be the best it can be.”

The park staff has also seen some recent in-house reshuffling as Jamie Cameron has been promoted into a Ranger II position that brings new responsibilities and challenges to his job. Ranger Cameron has worked at Lake James for more than eight years and is well-deserving of this move up the ranks according to Coffey. “Since he was hired here back in 2011, Ranger Cameron has shown his dedication and put in hard work that make him an excellent Ranger II candidate. I expect he will prove himself quite capable in this new capacity.”