 |
|
|
Highlights of the Careers in Natural Resources Forum Sponsored by: Itasca Community College Foundation’s DIALOGUE NORTH, Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce and Itasca Economic Development Corporation The Careers in Natural Resources forum was the 23 rd in a series of forums either sponsored or co-sponsored by Itasca Economic Development. The Natural Resources forum was open to the public with a primary focus on area students interested in learning about career opportunities relating to forestry and natural resources. In 2006 Minnesota Forest Industries of Duluth conducted a regional survey (Minnesota and Wisconsin) of current and projected forester staffing needs in both the private and public sectors. The survey indicated a high demand for natural resource professionals, using a current employee base of 850, those surveyed anticipate nearly 400 new hire openings from 2006-16. Itasca Community College, and its Northeast Minnesota partnering colleges, has the initial training resources available to prepare a workforce to take advantage of natural resources job opportunities. Panelists Tim O'Hara, Minnesota Forest Industries, Joe Alexander, District Ranger U. S. Forest Service, Craig Engwall, Regional Director Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, and John Thompson, Retired Forester from St. Louis County, each described their organizations and highlighted current and future career opportunities. Dr. Barbara McDonald, Dean of Academic Affairs, Itasca Community College, served as panel moderator. Students from many of the area schools were in attendance. |