September 27, 2023 — The following was released by NOAA Fisheries:
For years, NOAA and partners have worked to provide opportunities for military veterans to build their skills and work experience contributing to habitat and fisheries restoration projects along the West Coast. Through paid internships and training programs, veteran interns have worked with NOAA to:
- Support the recovery of threatened salmon and steelhead
- Learn about the science and policy of habitat restoration and salmon recovery
- Network and collaborate with agency, tribal, and nonprofit partners
- Build a portfolio of outreach and communications products
- Advance their GIS skills
NOAA partners with several groups to recruit, hire, and support veteran interns throughout Washington, Oregon, California, and Alaska. In 2023, we have several interns supported by one of these groups, Mt. Adams Institute. This Washington-based non-profit is dedicated to providing diverse internship opportunities for veterans. Their VetsWork program is an 11-month career development internship program for military veterans interested in the natural resources management, public lands, and environment sector.
Through this collaboration, NOAA is hosting three veteran interns this year:
- Jodie Robinson in Portland, Oregon
- Garret Engelke in Seattle, Washington
- Jeremy Thatcher in Anchorage, Alaska
Below, Jodie, Garret, and Jeremy share their experiences and perspectives from their internships so far.