Aaron Switzer ’98, is a fisheries professional with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, where he oversees fish hatchery operations and infrastructure projects that support fisheries management and conservation throughout the state. His work focuses on hatchery modernization, biosecurity, capital improvement planning, and fish production, helping to ensure the long-term sustainability of Michigan’s fisheries resources. He has led numerous large-scale construction and rehabilitation projects and serves on multiple department-wide committees supporting fisheries management and strategic planning. Switzer is particularly interested in advancing hatchery technology and developing innovative approaches to fish culture that improve operational efficiency and conservation outcomes.
First off, tell us a little bit about yourself and how you got to where you are professionally with the Michigan DNR?
It’s been a long road to get where I am today. After graduating in 1998, I began my career with Wyoming Game and Fish, then moved to Texas Parks and Wildlife in 1999. In 2000, I came back home to Michigan to accept an entry‑level position at the Wolf Lake State Fish Hatchery with the Michigan DNR. Over the next 23 years, I worked in and advanced through every fish culture classification in our state hatchery system. That experience, climbing the ladder one step at a time, has shaped how I see the work and how I lead. It’s given me the ability to relate to nearly any issue that comes up and a deep respect for the work every person in our fish production program contributes. In 2024, I stepped into the Fish Production Program Manager role, and I carry all those years of hands‑on experience with me. They guide my decisions, my priorities, and my appreciation for the teams who make our program successful.
Tell us about your current role as Fish Production Program Manager with the Michigan DNR. What does a typical day look like?
In my current role as the Fish Production Program Manager, I oversee Michigan’s entire state fish hatchery system. A big part of my job is making sure our facilities, staff, and resources are aligned with fisheries management goals and that production targets are met safely and efficiently.
A typical day for me is a mix of planning, problem‑solving, and coordination. I spend a lot of time working with hatchery managers and maintenance supervisors to address operational needs, review production plans, and make sure we’re supporting the teams on the ground who make our program successful. I also work closely with other parts of the Fisheries Division on budgeting, long‑term strategy, and making decisions that shape statewide fish production efforts. Another dimension of my often includes reviewing data, discussing upcoming projects or facility improvements, and navigating unexpected issues that come up — anything from water supply challenges to equipment failures to staffing needs. Because I’ve worked in every fish culture classification, I’m able to relate to the realities of day‑to‑day hatchery work, and that perspective helps me make decisions that are both practical and supportive of our teams.
No two days look exactly the same, but they all revolve around ensuring that our hatchery system functions effectively, sustainably, and with the safety and success of our team as a top priority.
What inspired you to pursue a career in fisheries, and what led you to choose LSSU?
My love for the outdoors and natural resources runs deep. I didn’t grow up playing video games – I grew up outside, in the woods and on the water. Wanting to give back to the places and people that shaped me, that is what inspired me to pursue a career in fisheries and outdoor stewardship.
The Aquatic Research Lab—now The Hatchery—is what drew me to LSSU. At the time, there was nowhere else in Michigan where students could get an education, volunteer, and work in a fully functional fish production facility. Every time I visit CFRE now, I’m still amazed by the facility, and just as impressed by the staff who run it. They’re top‑notch professionals who give students an outstanding real‑world learning experience, and I hope students recognize what an incredible resource they have in both the people and the place. The undergraduate thesis requirement was another major advantage. It prepares students for the next step academically or helps them understand how applied research works in a real‑world setting.
Switzer presenting at AFS Conference
What classes, professors, or hands-on experiences at LSSU had the biggest impact on your education?
I can’t point to a single class that stood out — they all contributed to my development. What truly made the difference were the people teaching them. Many were deeply passionate and connected well with students. I’d be remiss not to mention the mentoring I received at the ARL, which was likely the biggest influence on my career path.
And, as I mentioned earlier, the undergraduate thesis requirement was invaluable. Completing mine gave me clarity and helped me understand the direction I wanted to pursue professionally.
Did you participate in any extracurricular activities or clubs that helped develop your skills for your current role?
I likely spent more time than the average student at the hatchery – I wanted to learn as much as I possibly could while getting my start in the craft. I can’t say the Fisheries and Wildlife Club directly developed skills I use in my current role, but it did teach me to be humble. It was a great place to meet others who shared the same interests.
How did your LSSU experience prepare you for your career and the work you do today?
LSSU was truly the foundation for my career. I came in with the forms already in place, and LSSU provided the cement and aggregate that solidified everything. Pardon the play on words – managing construction projects is a big part of my role today, so it feels fitting. That foundation set me up for the work I do now and gave me the confidence and experience to grow into my career.
What’s one project or accomplishment in your career that you’re especially proud of?
One of the accomplishments I’m most proud of is helping to expand the Atlantic salmon program to include production‑level rearing in DNR facilities. The team at Platte River State Fish Hatchery put their blood, sweat, and tears into making it work. It took years of trials, adjustments, and perseverance to perfect the process. Today, thanks to the dedication of the teams at Platte River and Harrietta, we’re producing Atlantic salmon at a level that stands with the best. To top it off, having the honor of representing the DNR at the 40th Anniversary of stocking Atlantic salmon this summer was a moment I’ll never forget.
This success ties directly back to LSSU being my foundation. The knowledge I gained there, and especially the connections with people who would later become key collaborators, proved critical in making this effort a reality.
Switzer with son Austin – and a nice Pike!
What do you enjoy most about working in fisheries management?
What we do in fish production is one leg of the stool supporting fisheries resource management. Working cooperatively across all sections of Fisheries Division assuring the vision aligns with the Division’s mission is incredibly rewarding.
But the best part is simple – show me a picture of yourself or anyone holding a fish, and that’s what brings me the most joy. Knowing I may have contributed, even in a small way, to that smile and that memory is all I need.
–
What are some of the biggest challenges—and opportunities—you see for the future of Michigan’s fisheries?
A major challenge for fish production right now is lake whitefish recovery – it’s front and center for us. While we don’t yet know exactly what that will look like from a production standpoint, we’re committed to being actively involved in developing and supporting a strategy for recovery.
An opportunity I’d like to promote is exploring the use of recirculating aquaculture systems in Michigan’s state fish production facilities. Nearly all of our current systems are flow‑through. While we do reuse water between series of raceways, we don’t have any partial or full reuse systems in operation at the state level. Incorporating RAS technology could open the door to new efficiencies, environmental benefits, and production possibilities.
What’s one favorite memory from your time at LSSU that still stands out?
Aaron Switzer and Roger Greil
One memory that still stands out didn’t happen on campus or even while I was a student. In 2017, I traveled to Maine with one of my mentors, Roger Greil – the longtime manager at the ARL. We stayed on‑site at a hatchery to learn about the West Grand Lake strain of Atlantic salmon, the strain that adapted to the Great Lakes. In just a few days, we learned a tremendous amount about those fish. Some of what we saw led us to modify our own practices, and we’ve since applied those lessons to our rearing techniques.
What advice would you give current LSSU students interested in careers in fisheries or natural resources?
My advice for current students is to take advantage of every opportunity to learn, especially the hands‑on ones. Spend time in the lab, the hatchery, or the field whenever you can. Those experiences build confidence, skills, and connections that you’ll carry throughout your career.
Be curious, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to get your hands wet or dirty. Seek out mentors; the people around you are often your greatest resource. And stay humble – everyone starts somewhere, and the willingness to listen and learn will serve you well no matter where you go.
Most importantly, enjoy it. This is a unique place with unique opportunities, and the effort you put in now will shape the path ahead.
What does being an LSSU alumnus mean to you today?
Being an LSSU alumnus means carrying a foundation that shaped both my career and the way I approach my work. LSSU gave me hands‑on experience, strong mentorship, and connections that have been critical throughout my professional life. It also instilled a sense of humility, curiosity, and appreciation for applied learning — values I still rely on every day.
To me, being an alumnus isn’t just about where I went to school; it’s about being part of a community that helped set my direction, supported my growth, and continues to influence the work I do in fisheries today.