Tyler Sirois ’19

Growing up in Maine, Tyler Sirois knew from a young age that he wanted to work outdoors. “I never wanted to be stuck behind a desk,” he said. By the time he was in high school, Tyler had set his sights on a career as a game warden and started to look for a college program that was focused on not just criminal justice, but conservation law enforcement. He heard about Unity College from his best friend and decided to apply. Now, as an officer with the Maine Marine Patrol, Tyler can draw a direct line from his experience at Unity College to his successful career.

Tyler credits several of his first-year courses and experiences with preparing him for a career in the Maine Marine Patrol. “Introduction to Conservation Law Enforcement was very helpful,” he said, “and learning to identify the different species of ducks in North American Wildlife is still relevant to my work today.” During his first year he lived on campus and became involved in activities like the Con Law Club, Search & Rescue, and played intramural sports and club hockey. He also used extra-curricular opportunities to build his resume with key certifications like First Aid, Hunter Safety, Wilderness First Responder, and Firearms. 

During Tyler’s second year, classes in Marine and Wildlife Law Enforcement led to a ride along with the Maine Marine Patrol. It was one of many networking opportunities provided by the Conservation Law Enforcement program. “Networking is huge,” he observed. He advises current and prospective students to participate as much as they can. “Introduce yourself to the professionals who come to speak in your class or participate in scenarios. Agencies like to put a face to a name – they want to know you.” For Tyler, the ride along led to a summer deputy position with the Marine Patrol after his sophomore year. The experience also served as his college internship, so he was able to earn academic credit while working. 

Following his internship with Maine Marine Patrol, Tyler knew he had found his career. “The agency wanted to hire me full time, but I wanted to finish my degree.” The Unity College Conservation Law Enforcement program provided a clear path to graduation: Tyler was able to earn college credit while attending his training at the Maine Criminal Justice Academy, where he was in a class with eleven other Unity College Conservation Law graduates. Because of Unity’s flexible program, Tyler was able to graduate after only three years, saving him money and allowing him to jumpstart his career.  Looking back, he is convinced the Unity College Conservation Law Enforcement program is unique. “It is original,” he said. He advises prospective students to stay out of trouble, take advantage of the opportunities that come their way, and start practicing their interviewing skills early.  “It all pays off,” he said.