SACRAMENTO — The California Forestry Association (Calforests) and the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection today announced the launch of the California Forestry Sector Jobs Initiative (CFSJI) at the California Natural Resources Agency. Aligned with Governor Gavin Newsom's "California For All'' initiative and made possible through a grant from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), CFSJI’s mission is to recruit 1,000 workers from underserved and underrepresented communities, to diversify the sector’s workforce and expand its talent pool to ensure the future of California is prosperous and wildfire-ready.
"Our mission is clear: to build a diverse and skilled workforce that can meet the challenges of managing California's vast and vital forestlands," said Matt Dias, President and CEO of the California Forestry Association. "This initiative is not just about filling jobs; it's about creating opportunities for communities that have been historically overlooked and ensuring the sustainability of our forests for future generations."
"The California Forestry Sector Jobs Initiative represents a significant step forward in our efforts to attract a more diverse workforce that will protect and manage California's forest resources now and into the future," said John McCarthy, Deputy Chief, California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. "By investing in workforce development and inclusivity, we are investing in the long-term health and resilience of our environment and communities."
For the past three decades, California's forest products sector has faced significant challenges, including a steady workforce decline and a strategy of focusing on traditional workforce sources from rural Northern California. This reliance, coupled with an aging workforce, represents a significant challenge for the sector's long term economic viability and sustainability. Furthermore, amidst the wildfire crisis gripping our state, the forestry sector's role as a vital partner in managing millions of wildfire-prone acres cannot be overstated. With a changing climate exacerbating conditions, the need for a skilled and resilient workforce has never been more urgent. Our community safety and sustainability hinges on effectively managing and protecting California’s forestlands.
The California Forestry Sector Jobs Initiative is focused on the following key objectives:
Workforce Development: The forest products sector, and our partners, provides comprehensive training and skills development to prepare individuals for careers in forest management, lumber manufacturing, fire prevention, and post fire recovery. Our programs are designed to cultivate the next generation of leaders within the forest products sector.
Equity and Inclusion: The forest products sector is committed to diversifying our workforce by creating opportunities for individuals from underrepresented communities. This includes targeted outreach, recruitment, and support to ensure that all Californians have a chance to contribute to and benefit from this vital industry.
Community Engagement: Our initiative works closely with community officials, community-based organizations, and other stakeholders to build strong, collaborative relationships. These partnerships are essential in connecting community members with job and career opportunities and fostering a sense of shared responsibility for forest health.
Economic and Environmental Sustainability: By promoting resilient forests, we enhance air quality, water quality, wildlife habitat, and economic vitality. Our efforts contribute to the broader goal of climate adaptation and help ensure the long-term survival of California’s forestlands.
"This initiative is a game-changer for underserved communities," said Nikki Nguyen, President of Community Partners Advocate of Little Saigon Sacramento. "It opens up new career paths and provides the training needed to succeed in the forest products sector. We're excited to see the positive impact this will have on our community."
"As a student entering the forestry sector, the opportunities provided by this initiative are incredibly inspiring, and more importantly, will directly help me build my career," said Ella Bracchi, a Forest and Fire Sciences student at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. "It's reassuring to know that there's a concerted effort to support and include people from diverse backgrounds in such a critical industry."
For more information about CFSJI, please contact Marcus Wolf at marcus.wolf@mozaicmc.com.
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