Fred T. Beckham serves in the Director’s Office
In which branch of the armed forces did you serve?
U.S. Air Force and U.S. Navy.
Briefly describe your job in the military. Include the number of years you served.
Naval Aviator and Helicopter Pilot. I served 32 years total: U.S. Air Force (seven years) and U.S. Navy (25 years). I flew over 2,300 hours in eight different helicopters and fixed wing aircraft. I had a great career and would not change a thing. Now I have another fantastic job that provides the opportunity to be a part of a fantastic team.
Which bureau, office, park or trail do you work for now?
Director's Office.
Describe your job in the park service? What are your favorite parts of your job?
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) coordinator for the agency, also safety manager for the state parks. Program manager for the historic weapons program. I love working with the people of our great state who have disabilities, providing access to our fantastic state parks. Also, I like working with our staff, answering questions and providing alternatives to help us meet our goals.
How did your service in the military prepare you for working for the Florida Park Service?
Discipline, hard work and a positive attitude helped prepare me to work for the park service.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to pursue a career in the Florida Park Service?
Get the job, work as hard as you can, arrive early and leave late. Make sure you are the Kraken. Grab every qualification you can, and do the best you can with what and who you are working with.
