Meet the Team
Dedication. Expertise. Passion.
Our staff, scientists, & experts have over 100 years of combined experience in field research, teaching, and field expeditions. Staff members include museum educators, classroom teachers, professional scientists, researchers, & board members.
Program Director/Board President
Ron Giesler
Ron has enjoyed a 20 year career in museums and education. Since 2002, he has been leading adventures into the badlands of Montana. He loves creating unique experiences and watching the excitement when someone ID's their first fossil or having a real paleontologist answer their question.
"I especially enjoy cruising the canyons and coulees looking for the next "big find"...I know it's there"
Fossil & Design Lead/Board Member
Gene "Woody" Woodford
Woody has dedicated many years of his life to science and the museum world. Woody is a vital part of our Paleo X organization helping to find, catalog, and prep fossils for displays. Did you know that Woody worked for NASA and mapped the lunar surface for Neil Armstrong's Lunar landing? We are lucky to have him on our team.
Field Paleontologist
Michael Morales, PhD
Dr. Morales has an extensive background in geology and paleontology. He has been an avid fossil hunter and field paleontologist, assisting with Paleo X since 2002.
Program Manager
Erin Roberts
Erin received her Masters in Paleontology from Emporia University with an emphasis on Triceratops.
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"I think all dinosaurs are amazing. My favorite thing about Paleo X is the experience. You can go out and discover real remains of what had once been a living, breathing dinosaur."
Field Expert/PhD Candidate
Nick Thurber
Nick is working towards his PhD in paleontology with an emphasis on prehistoric tortoises through the University of California-Davis. Nick has been assisting Paleo X adventures for several years now and you guessed it, he really likes turtles!
Board Secretary/Treasurer
Gretchen Bertz
Gretchen helps to keep us all on track! Without her we'd be lost!
Board Member
Gary Schaefer
Gary has been with Paleo X for many years and offers a wide range of expertise for our organization.
Volunteer
Alan Westfall
Alan has been a part of and played many roles in Paleo X for several years. His expertise in business and his guidance has helped to navigate us where we are today.
Board Member/Media Manager
Michael Toeniskoetter
Michael joins the Paleo X team as it's newest member. Michael has a wide background from neurosurgery to museum CEO. His expertise in the social media realm will help bring Paleo X and Adventure 360 into the future.
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Field Expert/PhD Candidate
Ben Faulkner
Ben is a PhD candidate through UC Davis. Ben loves dinosaurs, running, and music.