Are you interested in natural resources research or management? If so, you may be interested in a program at College of Western Idaho (CWI) created specifically for second-year, Biology–Natural Resources majors.
The Pathways Program provides appointed students the opportunity to intern with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Students will work with local and regional biologists on the Service’s environmental review process creating content on fish, wildlife, and plant species of concern in Idaho.
Appointments will be made for one academic year, October 2024 through May 2025, during the candidate’s sophomore-equivalent year at CWI. Eligible students include those enrolled at the College during the 2024-2025 academic year and working toward a bachelor’s degree in any field of natural resources research or management including botany, ecology, environmental science, fisheries, wildlife biology, and other related fields. Students must be eligible for financial aid and the federal work-study program and be able to work up to 10 hours per week. Eligible students should be planning to transfer to a four-year college or university in Idaho to continue their studies in natural resources research or management.
Successful candidates will participate in U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service meetings, complete federally sponsored trainings, and network with potential employers. Most work will be completed remotely, so students must have a computer and internet connection capable of meeting U.S. Department of Interior information technology and security requirements. In addition, there is opportunity for regional field work and/or temporary employment during the summer of 2024. Outstanding candidates may even be eligible for additional internships or employment once they have left CWI, and enroll in a natural resources-related program at a four-year college or university in Idaho.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in Idaho has offices in Boise, Chubbuck, and Coeur d’Alene. Whether your plan is to transfer to Boise State University, Idaho State University, or University of Idaho, there will be an office nearby where you may be invited to participate in additional experiences. Careers in the natural resources field are rewarding but very competitive. Gaining experiences by way of internships or volunteerism is a great way to begin your career as a natural resource professional and may be an entry point into federal service.
For those interested in applying, contact Dr. Steven Lysne at stevelysne@cwi.edu with a Curriculum Vitae (CV) and include a brief notice of interest in your communication.
