I recently graduated from the University of Kentucky Entomology Department with a Master's degree, and am looking for work in the the interdiction of invasive insect species, IPM strategies within forest ecosystems and insect identification. I am also interested in providing educational interactions with the general public in these areas. I have a diverse background as a problem-solver, educator and team leader.Some of my skills as an entomologist include insect identification, collection and trapping techniques of insect samples, insect behavior, along with experiences in medical and forest entomology.I have had two previous successful careers, first as a computer programmer, followed by fifteen years as a pediatric nurse. During my nursing career, I was a frequent preceptor and lecturer, and was a clinical instructor for Ball State University for three years. I was very active on several hospital-based committees to improve quality control and educational opportunities for nurses and clientele. I also have a strong background in research, both as a nurse and as an entomologist. My thesis for my MSN degree (nursing) was on measuring nausea in pediatric oncology patients. I was active on several committees implementing the latest research to hospital procedures. I participated in a resiliency student with pediatric oncology patients both as nurse intervener and evaluator. As an entomologist, I conducted research on the aggregation behavior of bed bugs, specifically looking at the how semiochemicals (e.g., pheromones) mediate such behavior, and how such behavior differ between different populations of bed bugs. Improving our understanding of such behavior can lead to improvements in monitoring and treating bed bug infestations. Last year, I conducted an independent research project to successfully "catch and release" a previously thought at risk beetle.