Valen oversees the maintenance of Dartmouth's 70+ miles of hiking trails, including 54 miles of the Appalachian Trail. They facilitate technical trail work skills and tool trainings for students, staff, and community volunteers, in areas such as stone construction, chainsaw use, and tool maintenance. They serve as a staff advisor to the DOC sub-clubs Cabin and Trail, Dartmouth Mountaineering Club, Timber Team, Farm Club, Viva Hardigg Outdoor Club, and Environmental Stewardship Division. They are also the technical supervisor for the DOC Trail Crew, providing technical training and field support for the crew.

Relevant past work experience: 
Prior to joining OPO, Valen worked three seasons of backcountry trail crew, including two seasons as student director of the DOC Trail Crew.

Favorite outdoor activities:
Trail maintenance and construction, hiking, downhill skiing, exploring local swimming holes.

Certifications: Wilderness First Responder, Mental Health Wilderness First Aid, USFS Chainsaw Sawyer - Bucking Level A, USFS Crosscut Sawyer - Felling and Bucking Level A, WMNF Axe Certification