Staff Spotlight Series: Regional Directors

Behind every successful conservation initiative, banquet and fundraising milestone at the NWTF, there are dedicated regional directors and volunteers working tirelessly across the country. Volunteers are crucial to the NWTF’s grassroots movement, giving their time and energy to organize events, engage their communities and raise critical funds. Regional directors work hand in hand with these committed individuals, building relationships, forging new partnerships and raising millions of dollars to support the conservation of the wild turkey and the preservation of our hunting heritage. 

In the late 1980s, NWTF hired its first regional directors, dedicated professionals tasked with traveling tens of thousands of miles across their assigned territories to establish and grow local chapters. Their efforts fueled critical conservation work on the ground and expanded the reach of the NWTF’s mission. 

Today, more than 40 NWTF regional directors span the nation, each bringing a personal passion for the outdoors and a relentless commitment to making a difference. Meet a few of the individuals who are helping shape the future of conservation, one chapter and one event at a time.  

Dillon Williams, Regional Director for Alabama  

Williams’ journey into the outdoors began early, thanks to his father and grandfather who introduced him to deer hunting at five years old. As he grew, so did his hunting pursuits. By high school, Williams was duck hunting, and in 2012, a college teammate, and now fellow NWTF regional director Chase Davidson, introduced him to turkey hunting, forever changing his path. 

“I really didn’t know much about conservation until I was out of college,” Williams said. “I enjoy conserving what the good Lord gave us; I have been in love with all things outdoors from an early age and will continue to be until my last breath!” 

 At the NWTF, Williams covers central and northern Alabama, working closely with local chapters to fuel the NWTF’s conservation mission across Alabama. 

“I work hands on with committees and volunteers of all types to help raise money for the mission of the NWTF,” Williams said. “Our volunteers are what make the NWTF what it is, without them, none of this would be possible. When you find volunteers that are passionate about the wild turkey and are willing to listen to their regional director on the fundraising aspect of banquets, you will more than likely find success for all involved.” 

Williams’ journey has included personal growth as well — particularly when it comes to public speaking. 

“I had to take a public speaking class twice in college,” Williams said. “I wish my professor could see me now! It has become second nature.” 

Looking ahead, Williams has big goals for his role with the NWTF. 

“I aspire to keep growing relationships with my volunteers, they have become like family,” Williams said. “I aspire to be the No. 1 fundraiser in the country!” 

 To those who are interested in a career in the outdoor industry, Williams keeps it short and sweet: “Don’t be afraid.” 

Chance Wiggins, Habitat for the Hatch Collegiate Ambassador 

For Georgia native Chance Wiggins, the outdoors is deeply entwined with his family history. It is this upbringing and the mentors who guided his way that has created a passion in him and helped him get to where he is today. 

“Growing up, I never knew life without the outdoors,” he said. “I was surrounded by a family full of passion for nature. Some of my earliest memories are of the mounted animals in my great-grandparents' house and running around the bait shop owned by my other great-grandparents. Over the years, I’ve been lucky to have mentors who shared my love for nature, guiding me and making my experiences even richer. My respect for the outdoors and the wild turkey sparked a true passion in me. That passion was something I was born with and still carry with me today.” 

New to the flock, Wiggins joined the NWTF in December of 2024 as the Habitat for the Hatch collegiate ambassador — a brand-new position at the NWTF.  In his role, Wiggins is responsible for building and growing NWTF collegiate chapters across the Southeast. These chapters are designed to inspire and develop the next generation of NWTF volunteers. Catalyzing a passion for conservation in colleges, the NWTF similar positions are being developed, such as the Forest and Flocks collegiate ambassador. 

“Chapters, banquets and other events are crucial for giving the next generation of volunteers the chance to get involved with the NWTF,” Wiggins said. “Offering college students the opportunity to experience these events will help create a new wave of volunteers, ultimately raising more funds for the conservation of the wild turkey. Engaging younger volunteers is also key to preserving our hunting heritage.” 

While Wiggins’ path to the outdoors was paved by family and mentors, it hasn’t been without its challenges. 

“Living in a small town dominated by agriculture made it tough to pursue a career in the outdoors industry,” he said. “The easy path was to go into agriculture. The NWTF wasn’t well known in my community, and opportunities felt limited. I overcame this challenge by staying true to my passion and working hard. A few months before graduating with my bachelor's degree, I discovered the Collegiate Ambassador position, and it instantly ignited a fire within me.” 

Wiggins is now focused on helping students find and create more opportunities than he had.  

“My goal is to create a platform where students can showcase their creativity and make a real difference for conservation,” he said. “There are so many students out there with the passion, drive and creativity to do great things for the wild turkey.” 

Working with the next generation on a day-to-day basis, Wiggins is no stranger to offering advice to those interested in a career in the outdoors. Although he cites patience as the key, he encourages individuals to keep their heads up. 

“The outdoor and conservation industry is always evolving, and you never know when a new opportunity might arise,” Wiggins said. “I was hired for a position that had never existed before with a company that has been a cornerstone of conservation. Stay true to yourself — it’s never too late to pursue your passions.” 

Jolene Begley, Regional Director for California, Oregon and Western Nevada

For Begley, the outdoors isn’t just a passion — it’s part of who she is. 

“I grew up in the country, always outside, always immersed in outdoor activities,” Begley said. “My love for the outdoors was bred into me.” 

Her journey with the NWTF began when she attended a local chapter meeting. What started as a simple introduction quickly turned into a leadership role as she was elected treasurer that same night, learning the ropes as she went. But it didn’t take long for her to realize she had found something truly meaningful. 

“I loved being involved in fundraising and conservation, being part of something bigger than myself,” Begley said. 

At the time, she had young children who grew up within the NWTF, reinforcing her commitment to the organization. She eventually served on her state board, but it was during this time that she had an epiphany: she enjoyed her NWTF volunteer work more than her day job. 

“I took a leap of faith about ten years ago, leaving my job to pursue a career at the NWTF,” Begley said. “And I haven’t looked back since.” 

Now, as a regional director in the West, Begley works with chapters to host impactful events from Wheelin’ Sportsmen programs to Women in the Outdoors and JAKES youth outreach. 

“I get to have fun every day,” she said. “And the more people we educate about the NWTF and the conservation work we do, the more members we bring in, the more funds we raise and the greater impact we have on the ground.” 

Like many of her female peers, Begley has faced challenges in breaking into a traditionally male-dominated industry. But her humble yet confident approach to leadership, her ability to collaborate with volunteers and her dedication to improving chapter events have allowed her to thrive. 

“I love what I do,” she said. “My goal every day is to move the needle forward — conserving the wild turkey and preserving our hunting heritage to ensure future generations get to enjoy the great outdoors like I grew up doing. Every time I meet with volunteers and landowners, I feel like I’m making a difference."

Her advice to those looking to make a difference? 

“Be true to yourself; it’s all about the mission and serving that purpose.” 

Trevor Day, Regional Director for Missouri 

In his childhood, Day recalls his everyday life being molded around the outdoors and spending time in the woods behind his home. However, this passion grew exponentially after his first hunt. 

“My entire childhood was molded around the outdoors,” Day said. “Every spare moment I was thinking about hunting and being outside in the woods behind the house or the pond below the hill. It really ramped up when my dad took me turkey hunting for the first time. From there on, it was non-stop calling in the house all year long to the point of nauseum for my parents and sister or on bus rides to and from sporting events, and that fire has never gone away. For me, it is not just turkey hunting, I enjoy hunting many different species and most all seasons throughout the year. But it all started with hearing that first gobble just before sunrise and a few minutes later, the immaculate spectacle that is a strutting long beard in your face.” 

Day’s love for hunting naturally evolved into a deeper appreciation for conservation, as he began to recognize the intricate balance of ecosystems and the importance of conserving wildlife habitats. 

“Science was always my favorite subject, and I enjoyed learning about how ecosystems fit together as a whole for all species within an environment,” he said. “My motivation was that I wanted to continue to learn as much as I could about wildlife and conservation, that I could be an advocate for the resources that I have had the privilege to enjoy my entire life.” 

Today, as one of three regional directors for the NWTF in Missouri, Day’s passion fuels his work every day. Overseeing NWTF chapters across the western portion of the state, Day helps them organize fundraising events that support the organization’s conservation initiatives and efforts to preserve our hunting heritage. 

“Throughout the year, I am working with folks to plan out their banquets and other events they want to host in their local communities,” Day said. “I get to meet so many people that share the same passion for hunting and conservation; it has truly made some of my fondest friendships. When banquet season rolls around, it is my job to help each chapter deliver a product that their communities enjoy and rally around to ensure the conservation of the wild turkey and the preservation of our hunting heritage.” 

 Day is quick to emphasize that the NWTF’s impact would not be possible without its network of dedicated chapters and volunteers. 

“Without our chapters and volunteers, the organization would cease to exit,” Day said. “They truly are what makes the NWTF such an incredible organization. Through their banquets and fundraising efforts across the state of Missouri and the country, we are able to deliver upon our mission and ensure that what we have all enjoyed in the outdoors, will be there for generations to come.” 

While working in conservation is deeply rewarding, it comes with its share of challenges. For Day, one of the biggest hurdles is addressing misconceptions about hunting’s role in conservation. 

 “There are many challenges facing conservation and our natural resources,” he said. “Many stemming from those who may not support hunting, nor understand that hunting is conservation. In this field, you should know that it is certainly a way of life, rather than a job. Separating your personal life from your work life is challenging at times and can be personally draining. During these times, I have looked to why I got started in conservation in the first place and what motivated me to do so. I go outside, explore the woods or mentor a new hunter. Our passion for the outdoors runs deep, but to overcome times when running on empty, it is important to remind yourself of why you have devoted your career and sometimes, sanity to conservation. If not me, then who.” 

Looking ahead, Day hopes to see more young people stepping up to ensure the future of conservation. 

“My hope is that my generation of young people can see their time is needed within volunteer organizations,” he said. “The events they grew up attending, enjoying and benefiting from need their help to ensure that this will continue. We are needed on chapter committees, on boards and counsels, and now is the time we take the torch and move it into the future.” 

 For those interested in a career in conservation, Day stresses the importance of hands-on experience. 

“Make sure you have taken advantage of opportunities to learn from those already in natural resource management positions,” he said. “Job shadowing and other internship opportunities will allow you to see what the field has to offer as you begin looking into your own career.” 

Brandon Nutt, Regional Director for Michigan 

Like many others, Nutt’s connection to the outdoors has always felt like a part of life.  

“My connection to hunting, fishing and conservation began at a young age and never let up," Nutt said. "It’s all I ever wanted to do."  

That lifelong passion led him to a career dedicated to supporting conservation and preserving hunting heritage. In 2022, Nutt joined the NWTF flock as the regional director for western Michigan, working closely with volunteers and chapters to raise funds and advance the organization's mission. 

“My job revolves around volunteer relations and fundraising," Nutt explained. "Without chapter support, the NWTF cannot uphold its mission.” 

Like many who pursue a career in the outdoor industry, Nutt has faced challenges along the way. His time as a hunting guide before joining the NWTF gave him valuable experience. 

"I love when people ask, ‘So what’s your full-time job then?’" Nutt said. "They don’t always realize how much effort goes into what we do." 

Despite these challenges, Nutt remains driven by a deep sense of purpose.  

"I think about my kids, my future grandkids and all the generations to come," Nutt said. "Every dollar we raise makes a difference, and I want to ensure that future generations can enjoy the outdoors and what it has to offer just like I have.” 

For those looking to follow a similar path, Nutt offers straightforward advice:  

"Don’t give up,” Nutt said. “Work harder than anyone else. Nobody owes you anything — you have to get up and earn it." 

Connect with a regional director in your state by visiting the NWTF website here.