EPA Press Office:

EPA, Salish Kootenai College partnership to strengthen career opportunities for Native American students

Pablo, Mont. (Oct. 6, 2023) – Leaders from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Salish Kootenai College made a strong commitment to building skills and career opportunities for Native American students during a partnership signing ceremony in Pablo, Montana, today. The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between EPA and SKC will promote education and recruitment of diverse students for environment-related careers for students in fields such as science and environmental justice. 

“EPA is invested in recruiting a talented, diverse workforce to fulfill our mission to protect human health and the environment, and we are excited to partner with Salish Kootenai College in this effort,” said EPA Regional Administrator KC Becker. “EPA looks forward to supporting the College as they help their students build skills and expertise to address environmental concerns and prepare for careers in STEM fields.” 

Plans for the agreement include: 

• Broadening support for various career fields; 
• Federal hiring and resume workshops for students; 
• Career guidance from EPA professionals; 
• Presentations by EPA experts at classes and conferences; and  
• Exploring opportunities for joint research projects to support student development. 

Background  

The mission of Salish Kootenai College is to provide quality post-secondary educational opportunities for Native Americans, locally and from throughout the United States. The College promotes community and individual development and currently serves students from 53 North American Tribes across 16 U.S. states and Canadian provinces.

EPA’s mission depends on the recruitment of highly trained, diverse professionals in STEM and related environmental-policy fields to fulfill its mission. In order to meet research needs and encourage full representation of all citizens, EPA will work closely with SKC administrators, educators and students to increase awareness of job and internship opportunities and contribute to students’ career development.