Eyerman, Mark

Describe your background, interests, and vocation.

I've been an outdoors enthusiast all my life, clearing old farm roads and deer paths to make minibike trails through the woods as a 13 year old. I believe that service to my community is a foundation of my life. As such I have been a disaster relief volunteer with the Red Cross, I've tutored math with the Pgh Literacy Council, done home repairs and maintenance through our Parish's Senior Connection outreach, managed the parking for the Run the Lights event, distributed food to the homeless in association with Operation Safety Net, as well as one off events like the Senior Olympics, various runs and races, etc. I started official trail work in the early 90's serving on the Board of the Harmony Trails Council. I discovered the Rachel Carson Trail running near my home in about 1995 and have been doing things there ever since; Board Member, Trail Stewart, Trail Manager, Hike Leader, Work Crew Leader, Chainsaw Operator, Event Speaker, Expo Representative, Trail Builder (if you haven't guessed I have a hard time saying no when something needs to get done). And something of late, through the recent trail building activities, I have made a conscious effort to foster a sense of community and camaraderie and I am proud of the team of dedicated trail workers that have done so much

Why would you like to be on the RCTC Board?

I've been active with the group for quite a while but I feel like I am a bit out of touch with what's been happening with the Conservancy as a whole. There are also a cadre of newer folks who I have really not gotten to know that I'd like to grow closer to. In addition I would like to add my voice to the group in an official capacity.

What makes you a good addition to the RCTC Board?

I feel that I bring a depth of experience that would be invaluable to the group. My experience volunteering with many other groups gives me a perspective on how a volunteer organization differs from a commercial or militaristic structure, and the unique challenges and opportunities that this presents. I'm a hands on type person that is results oriented, which can be invaluable to the RCTC. I'm comfortable and experienced dealing with both younger and older individuals, be it in partnership or in a mentoring role. And maybe most importantly, I honestly love the RCT and have devoted much of my life to nurturing in and working to make it better.