While making the decision to come out here for this program, one of the things I was looking forward to most, was getting out of my old routines and beginning a new job in a new location. Continue Reading…
We are several weeks into the program so far; we have all been through most of the trainings and certifications now. Continue Reading…
Before I arrived to participate with the Mt. Adams Institute’s VetsWork GreenCorps program I expected to be challenged physically and to learn about wildland firefighting. Continue Reading…
“I need you to break off and handle that spot fire!” my squad leader yelled back at me from beyond the trees ahead. Continue Reading…
The time has flown by incredibly fast. What has seemed like only a few weeks has turned into a few months, and the end of the program and the beginning of our time as official Forest Service employees is rapidly approaching. Continue Reading…
My day working with the Umatilla Vet crew starts the same everyday with some form of physical training (PT). Continue Reading…
I’ll be honest; I didn’t have many expectations before arriving to start this program. Continue Reading…
I decided to apply for the VetsWork GreenCorps AmeriCorps program through the Mt. Adams Institute and the Umatilla National Forest, because I was in great need of a change in my life. Continue Reading…
The last two months of the VetsWork GreenCorps program, have been very enjoyable. I’ve gained a lot of new skills, and experience in a new career field. Coming into the VetsWork program, I thought I was going to be volunteering working alongside the Forest Service, and that’s exactly the opportunity I was given. Continue Reading…
My name is Eric Leight. I’m a fella from New Jersey who decided to try his luck in the Pacific Northwest as a firefighter. Through ten weeks of intense training, both physically and mentally, we now stand here waiting for our chance at action. Over the past two months, a lot has happened, and I do mean a lot. Continue Reading…