Alumni Profile: Ed Akerley '89

Q+A with Ed Akerley ’89

What was one of your most meaningful or memorable GUS experiences?

SOLO (Stonehearth Open Learning Center) trips and overnight hiking trips stand out in my GUS memories. Out of all the teachers I had in the four grade schools I attended, the ones at GUS are by far the most memorable.

Where are you now, and what are you doing?

I work at Applied Materials in Gloucester as Sr Manager, Environmental Health and Safety (EHS). I also serve in the US Coast Guard Reserve as a Lieutenant Commander. Currently assigned as Chief of the Incident Management Division, Sector Northern New England. I’m approaching 17 yrs of service.

In what ways do you feel GUS prepared you for what you're doing now?

My time at GUS taught me respect and compassion for others and for the environment. The time we spent on the nature trails, hiking, learning, and exploring were some valuable lessons.