Opportunities for Veterans in the National Park Service
Opportunities for Veterans in the National Park Service. National Park Service
In the mountains of West Virginia, the Allegheny Fire Management Zone of the National Park Service - in collaboration with the nonprofit Conservation Legacy - has hosted the Veterans Fire Corps training program for the past two years. This initiative equips military veterans with the skills needed for fire management and, in many cases, results in longer-term careers in wildland fire management and firefighting. However, for those unsure of their ultimate career path, it also offers an opportunity to explore something new. Over the course of three months, veteran fire crew members familiarize themselves with wildland fire management, all while getting paid, receiving on-the-job training, and benefiting from mentorship from career professionals in the field.