Profiles of Members of the Native-American Community at EPA: Curtis Hicks
Profiles of Members of the Native-American Community at EPA
Curtis Hicks, Environmental Protection Specialist
Office of Environmental Justice and Tribal Affairs
Dallas, Texas
Where were you born?
Talihina, Oklahoma
What is your tribal affiliation?
Muscogee Creek
What brought you to EPA?
Having worked 15 years within three different tribal government organizations, I needed to make a career change. Although I wanted to have a different work experience, I also wanted to continue working with tribal organizations in some capacity. A close friend told me about a vacancy in Region 6 EPA Office, Dallas, Texas. I applied and was hired to work in the Office of Environmental Justice, Tribal and International Affairs. It has been a very positive working experience and I feel very fortunate to have an opportunity to continue working with tribal organizations and tribal communities within Region 6.
Describe the type of work you do at EPA.
My general duties include grants management and tribal liaison duties. I work specifically with the General Assistance Program (GAP) grant and am assigned to work with 14 Tribal Nations in Oklahoma and Texas.
Did you go to vocational school or college? What was your major?
I studied and graduated from Bacone Junior College in Muskogee, Oklahoma, where I obtained an Associate degree in Liberal Arts. After Bacone, I continued my education to Northeastern State University in Tahlequah, Oklahoma. Here I obtained both a Bachelor of Science degree in secondary education and a Master of Science degree in secondary education administration. Later, I obtained a Master of Science degree in human resources administration from East Central University in Ada, Oklahoma.
What message would you like to send other American Indians/Alaska Natives who are considering college or a career in environmental protection?
I strongly encourage all Native American Indian/Alaska Natives to pursue a college education, and I consider Vocational Training the same level as a college education. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned over the years is that education after high school can be the key to obtaining independence, satisfactory employment, and a good career. As a first-generation college graduate in my family, I know firsthand that getting an education may be difficult, but very attainable. A career in environmental protection can be very personal and fulfilling because you can get firsthand experience in helping achieve and maintain a safe, healthy, living environment for all.