Shannon Ryker returned to school in August 2020 after working in various positions in the aerospace industry, including structures mechanic on the 777 aircraft, composite repair on the 787 Dreamliner, and others. Her passion for the outdoors and travel led her to pursue a bachelor's degree in Geography and GIS. Currently, she attends classes at Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, Tennessee, and works part-time at the APSU GIS Center as a Wetlands Research Assistant. Shannon is on track to graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Earth and Environmental Science (Geography/GIS Concentration) in the spring of 2024.