Bio
Mike Rader grew up the son of a U.S. Air Force fighter pilot and has lived all over the United States and abroad. After serving four years in the U.S. Marine Corps as an infantry officer, he decided to pursue graduate study in natural resources. Mike has researched forest biodiversity conservation in Nova Scotia and nest predation and bobwhite population ecology in south Texas. Before coming to Stevens Point, he spent almost ten years working in conservation law enforcement for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. Mike’s multi-disciplinary background has led to broad professional interests in conservation law enforcement, human dimensions of natural resource management, human-wildlife interactions, and wildlife habitat ecology.
Experiences and Interests
Teaching Experience
- Assistant Professor, University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point (September 2016-Present)
- Instructor, Defense and Arrest Tactics, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (2010-2016)
- Instructor, Tactical Response, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (2015)
Research Interests
- Conservation Law Enforcement
- Human Dimensions of Natural Resources
- Wildlife Ecology
Professional Experience
- Conservation Warden, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (2007-2016)
- Environmental Consultant, Etter Tree Care, San Antonio, TX (2006)
- Infantry Officer, United States Marine Corps (1995-1999)
Involvement
Campus
- Student Internship Coordinator, Conservation Law Enforcement
- Faculty Advisor, Student Law Enforcement Association
- Faculty Senator, Common Council
Profesional Memberships
- Member, Law Enforcement Committee, Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies
- Life Member, Wisconsin Conservation Warden Association
- Member, The Wildlife Society
FUN FACTS
Last book you read?
The Glorious Cause by Robert Middlekauf
Best advice you ever received?
Treat others the way you want to be treated.
What did you want to be when you were growing up?
Paleontologist, Marine, Game Warden
Favorite quote?
“Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country.” John F. Kennedy
One thing about your college that you are most proud of?
The dedication of the faculty to teaching and natural resources. The diversity of our Department and the hands-on nature of our classes.
What do you enjoy most about teaching?
Interacting with the next generation and preparing them to be successful in the future.
A piece of advice for students?
Get practical experience in your field while you’re here. Don’t just sit in class.