From TikTok to Alaska: Tyler’s Journey
by V. Heisser |
From a TikTok Scroll to the Alaskan Coast
Tyler’s path to Prince William Sound College (PWSC) began in an unexpected place: a TikTok feed. After a major life transition, he came across a video on grant funding for PWSC. It was one of the first videos he ever saw on the platform, but it sparked enough curiosity to pull him toward Valdez. A few years later, that 60-second clip has evolved into a life-changing educational chapter.
A Foundation of Service
Originally from "a little bit of everywhere," Tyler was a military kid raised by his father, living all across the United States. Following in those footsteps, he served in the U.S. Marine Corps, including security forces and infantry. While a knee injury cut his military career short, the transition led him back to seasonal work and outdoor environments he loves.
Tyler’s path to Prince William Sound College (PWSC) began in an unexpected place: a TikTok feed. After a major life transition, he came across a video on grant funding for PWSC. It was one of the first videos he ever saw on the platform, but it sparked enough curiosity to pull him toward Valdez. A few years later, that 60-second clip has evolved into a life-changing educational chapter.
A Foundation of Service
Originally from "a little bit of everywhere," Tyler was a military kid raised by his father, living all across the United States. Following in those footsteps, he served in the U.S. Marine Corps, including security forces and infantry. While a knee injury cut his military career short, the transition led him back to seasonal work and outdoor environments he loves.
Building a Bridge to Wildlife ConservationTyler isn't just attending classes; he’s building a toolkit for his future. He plans to use his GI Bill to pursue a degree in Wildlife Conservation at the University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) and views PWSC as the vital stepping stone to get there.
Through the Occupational Endorsement Certificates in Natural Resources Technician (NRT), and Marine Natural Resources Technician (MNRT) programs, Tyler has gained a deep understanding of:
Forest Ecology & Marine Biology: Seeing firsthand how landmasses and marine life are interconnected.
General Scientific Principles: Gaining the "how-to" behind the natural world.
Practical Skills: "It’s a good introduction to get a basic understanding of how things work," Tyler says of the curriculum.
Why PWSC? Community and Connection
For Tyler, the appeal of PWSC isn't just the curriculum—it’s the culture. After living in larger cities, he found a home in Valdez's tight-knit community.
"I don’t like big cities, so it’s nice to have that tight-knit community... it’s been a really enjoyable experience overall."
That community spirit extends to the classroom. Tyler is particularly interested in the OEC in Marine Services Technology, noting that instructors like Anthony provide the high-level, hands-on training that field-based wildlife roles require.
Life Beyond the Books
True to the Alaskan lifestyle, Tyler’s hobbies are as rugged as his career goals. Since moving to Valdez, he has picked up ice climbing to complement his love for hunting, hiking, and mountain exploration. When he’s not on a mountain or in a boat, you can find him working on cars—a testament to his love for mechanical, hands-on work.
The Road Ahead
This spring & summer will be a whirlwind of activity. Tyler will be working with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game on the Aleutian Peninsula before moving north to Fairbanks this fall.
This spring & summer will be a whirlwind of activity. Tyler will be working with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game on the Aleutian Peninsula before moving north to Fairbanks this fall.
From a chance social media discovery to a clear professional mission, Tyler’s story
is a powerful reminder that the right fit makes all the difference. Whether he’s on
the peninsula or in the classroom, he’s moving forward with confidence and a clear
vision for his future in the Great Outdoors.