Environmental Program Gives NJ Students A Look At Career Possibilities

TRENTON, NJ— A group of students from underprivileged areas are spending six weeks of this summer getting a taste of potential environmental careers through a program created by the state Department of Environmental Protection.

The program, called the Youth Inclusion Initiative, offers students ages 16 to 20 who don't have access to much open space opportunities to learn about the environment through hands-on experiences.

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The program was created in 2021, and is a partnership between the NJDEP and private and nonprofit organizations.

Over the six-week program, the students partake in a series of seminars, learning about topics such as natural resource management, monitoring the water and air, and wildlife conservation.

Some of the work involves using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to collect and analyze survey data on park facilities, conducting field assessments of wetlands, building rain barrels, and collecting macroinvertebrates (aquatic insects) from a stream to determine water quality.

They also will work on environmental projects in their home communities such as cleaning up local parks and planting community gardens. NJDEP provides the funding for these projects to the community host organizations.

The program also offers students a look into the professional aspects of pursuing their careers, such as resume and cover letter writing, and presentations from guest speakers.

These experiences prepare the students to ultimately work in an environmental-related career.

"Environmental careers aren't one-size-fits-all," said Elizabeth Dragon, the NJDEP’s assistant commissioner for community investment and economic revitalization.

"Whether these young people are interested in the trades, college, military service, or public sector work, the environment needs them," Dragon said. "When alumni tell us, ‘This is what I want to do for the rest of my life,’ we know we're building more than just a workforce – we are empowering future environmental leaders."

Originally established in 2021, the Youth Inclusion Initiative has since grown to more than 100 participants and 10 host organizations.

Steve Cunningham, the executive director at Team Wilderness, one of DEP’s host organizations, said, “At Team Wilderness, we believe every young person deserves opportunities that expand their horizons and help them discover new possibilities, which is why we're thrilled to partner with the NJ Department of Environmental Protection through the Youth Inclusion Initiative."

"Through this program, our youth will be introduced to environmental careers and stewardship while building confidence, leadership, and a deeper connection to nature. We can't wait to see what they accomplish this summer," he said.

The 2026 Youth Inclusion Initiative program started July 7 and continues through Aug. 14.