The Forest Service recently focused on a new initiative to recruit and retain a diverse workforce. In late February, agency recruiters directed their hiring efforts toward Job Corps alumni.

Managed jointly by the USDA Forest Service and the U.S. Department of Labor, Job Corps Civilian Conservation Centers provide critical education, life skills and vocational training to over 3,800 young people every year. Vocational trade programs range from construction and transportation to natural resources and forestry.

As part of the natural resources vocational program, many students have participated in four-month internships to gain experience in improving and protecting natural resources on public lands. This internship, along with their education, qualifies these alumni for a Public Land Corps certificate and makes them eligible under a PLC non-competitive hiring authority. In this winter’s hiring event, Job Corps graduates had the opportunity to apply for permanent, full-time Forestry Aid positions in several regions using their earned PLC certificates.

“Job Corps students and alumni are eager and ready to serve the Forest Service’s employment needs and contribute to a more diverse environment,” remarked Cristina Newton-Schlesselman, national management analyst for Job Corps. “Our career-trained students are excited for the opportunity to use their education, training and experience in alignment with an organization that is committed to caring for the land and serving people.”

The hiring event required vital collaboration between Forest Service national hiring and recruitment teams and Job Corps leadership. Applicants needed information and several pieces of paperwork to qualify for the positions offered. National recruiters conducted a series of comprehensive webinars that covered the basics of federal resume writing and how to apply on USA Jobs. One-on-one consultations were scheduled for applicants who requested more information or guidance.

“It was an honor to be a part of the Job Corps hiring event,” reported John “JB” Brown, national recruiter for the Forest Service. “We’ll never know someone’s potential unless we give them an opportunity to show their capabilities.”