Forest, VetsWork seek career training program applicants

The Deschutes National Forest and VetsWork, a program of the Mt. Adams Institute, announced Friday they are bringing back and expanding the national career training program for military veterans.

The VetsWork program trains military veterans for potential careers in public lands / natural resources management through on-the-job training and mentorship.

The program entails 45 weeks of hands-on training in which participants will learn while supporting recreation, community engagement and volunteer coordination projects on the National Forest.

Participants will receive training and experience on topics pertaining to a variety of natural and cultural resources. The experience and training in the VetsWork program is designed to encourage participants to explore potential career options with the U.S. Forest Service.

“The VetsWork program is intended to support military veterans as they transition back into civilian life by providing them with this opportunity to explore a potential career in service to public lands and the natural resources that abound in the region,” said Brendan Norman, executive director of the Mt. Adams Institute.

Tyson Shoenmoser, a local veteran living in Bend, served as a Natural Resources intern with the Bend-Fort Rock Ranger District this year. His success in the program led to a permanent position with the forest.

Said Shoenmoser, “The Mt. Adams Institute’s VetsWork program was crucial for me in obtaining a permanent Forest Service position. The program allows you to get on the job training while working in the field of your interest. The internship also allows you to network within the Forest Service and the community to show how vital veterans can be to their team. The program was a great experience that ultimately led me to a career I can once again feel proud of.”

This is the second year the forest has partnered with the Mt. Adams Institute and the VetsWork program. In 2017, the number of sites will be expanded, with participants serving at the Bend-Fort Rock, Sisters and Crescent ranger districts.

The program begins on February 6 , 2017. Interested applicants should contact the Mt. Adams Institute at recruitment@mtadamsinstitute.com or review the position description at http://www.mtadamsinstitute.com/jobs/.

Participants receive a modest living stipend, basic health insurance, an AmeriCorps education award of $5,775 and other benefits.