Michael Schuster moved to the Roaring Fork Valley at age eight, growing up exploring Snowmass Mountain and developing a deep appreciation for the outdoors. His love for the environment was nurtured through family camping and fishing trips, Boy Scouts Troop 242 in Basalt, and Outdoor Education trips through Aspen High School. Michael earned a B.A. in Environmental Studies with a focus on Water Science and a Minor in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology from CU-Boulder in 2010. He began his career performing water quality monitoring with Roaring Fork Conservancy and later earned a Master’s in Environmental Management from Western Colorado University in 2019. He currently works at the Glenwood Springs Wastewater Treatment Facility, combining his scientific expertise with a commitment to protecting the local environment.
Michael joined the RFL Academy to strengthen his leadership skills and better define his professional path. Though recognized as a strong team leader, he seeks confidence in stepping into more formal leadership roles and wants to connect with other local leaders.
Through the Academy, Michael hopes to expand his professional network, develop strategies for mentoring young people into environmental and trade-based careers, and create a positive impact on the Roaring Fork and Colorado River Valley community. He is eager to explore opportunities that integrate environmental stewardship with community leadership.
