Taking the scenic route: Brittney’s journey to RDCO Parks
When Brittney Currie first came to Kelowna to attend UBCO, a career in parks wasn’t part of the plan. She was studying English literature and imagined becoming an English teacher. A few years into university, however, she decided it was time for a change.
That change came somewhat serendipitously when Brittney landed a student position with the RDCO Parks team in the summer of 2014. More than a decade later, the Kootenay transplant is still here, now working as a Parks Operator Team Lead. And as Brittney puts it, she “hasn’t looked back since.”
It turns out Parks has been a natural fit.
Whether she’s at work or enjoying her own time, Brittney is happiest outdoors. Being active and spending time in nature are an important part of her life, and she appreciates having a career that brings those interests together with an ever-changing mix of skills and experiences.
“There is such a variety of work in Parks. It keeps you on your toes,” she says.
Over the years, that variety has given Brittney plenty of memorable experiences. During her first year in her current position, she and a former colleague worked together to build and replace a special bench along Philpott Trail, a project that still stands out to her. More recently, she completed a horticulture certificate through the University of Guelph, adding another skill set to the many she has developed throughout her Parks career.
But ask Brittney what she’s proudest of and her answer isn’t a particular project or accomplishment. It’s her team.
For Brittney, helping foster strong team dynamics has been one of the most rewarding parts of her career. She values how much her colleagues care about one another and the pride everyone brings to their work.
“Our crews’ achievements make me really proud,” she says.
That appreciation for teamwork, coupled with a love of the outdoors, has helped turn what started as an unexpected summer job into a fulfilling career.
And when she isn’t working in parks, Brittney still isn’t likely to be found far from the outdoors. For the past few summers, she’s been learning to kiteboard and has been working toward tackling some of the Okanagan’s more advanced launching conditions and locations.
Her goal for this year?
“This should be the year. Fingers crossed!”
From an aspiring English teacher to a Parks team lead, Brittney’s path may not have followed the original plan, but sometimes the unexpected route turns out to be exactly the right one.
