Today’s employer advice is from Morgan Brandenburg, Recruitment, Outreach, and Communications Manager at Southwest Conservation Corps.
Q: Tell us about your organization.
Empowering individuals to positively impact their lives, their communities and the environment, Southwest Conservation Corps (SCC) operates conservation service programs across Southern Colorado and Northern New Mexico that engage youth, young adults and veterans on public lands. SCC works to foster inclusive opportunities and collaborative partnerships for positive growth through development of knowledge, leadership, and compassion towards our lands and communities.
Q: What advice would you give to people in midlife who want to transition to a green job?
Check out AmeriCorps options and programs called Individual Placements. These are like internships but are not attached to any sort of schooling. They provide a ton of on-the-job experience and often times solid certifications. They are often a partnership with a land management agency, like the Forest Service or the National Park Service. None of them really pay a huge amount, but many of them pay plenty to sustain for a temporary position. Make sure to check out the age limits. Volunteer with your local organizations that focus on a similar mission.
Q: What are the skills that you believe will be required most in the short-medium term in your industry?
Proven leadership skills, weatherization skills, all things related to climate and preparing for that.