Overview
Project Description
The Veterans Fire Corps (VFC) program provides training, certifications, and on-the-job experience for veterans aged 18-35 who are interested in entering careers and gaining experience in wildland firefighting and natural resource management. The program engages veterans in a cohort environment to train and complete projects related primarily to fuels management, which may include prescribed burning and wildland firefighting. The crew should also be prepared to assist on a variety of projects including trail maintenance, invasive species removal, and habitat management.
This crew will typically be stationed at New River Gorge National Park in West Virginia but can also be deployed to other National Park Service sites within the Northeast region.
Crews consist of six crew members and two crew leaders who provide project expertise, mentorship, training, and support for the success of all participants. While prior experience with outdoor work can be helpful, it is not a necessity for this position. We ask that crew members embrace learning opportunities, face challenges, and build community with their crew.
Schedule and Crew Life
The schedule for this crew is heavily dependent on weather, partner schedules, and varying workload at any given time in the season. We ask members to be flexible and open to changing needs throughout the season. The typical hitch schedule is Monday through Thursday each week. While in the field, crew members work outdoors in all types of weather conditions for 10 hours a day.
Appalachian Conservation Corps is an independent, non-residential program. Crews are responsible for their own food and transportation when they are not in the field. While participants are asked to supply as much of their personal equipment as possible, loaner gear will be available if needed. A gear list is provided upon acceptance into the program.
Food is provided while in the field. Crews work together to plan meals and complete necessary chores (cooking, washing dishes, etc.). Most dietary restrictions can be accommodated if known ahead of time. We also provide group camping equipment, tools, protective gear, uniform shirts, and transportation between Appalachian Conservation Corps offices/lodging sites and project sites.
About Appalachian Conservation Corps
Appalachian Conservation Corps (ACC) works to connect young people to critical conservation service work across Appalachia and neighboring communities in Virginia, West Virginia, Ohio, Maryland, DC, and Pennsylvania. As a corps program, ACC partners with public land managers to identify, plan, and complete projects that improve public access, habitat quality, and economic development. ACC is a program of Conservation Legacy, a nationwide network of conservation service organizations. Our programs focus on service, place-based learning, life skills development, appreciation of diversity, civic responsibility, and career development. ACC also provides an opportunity for members to learn about the local environment and issues affecting it and introduces individuals to recreation and resource management careers. ACC welcomes national applicants, but also emphasizes the engagement of local individuals who represent the communities in which they serve.
