Colorado's Innovative Partnership Combats Wildfires and Trains Conservation Professionals

Strategic Insights -

Colorado has made a breakthrough in combatting wildfires and training conservation professionals through an innovative partnership between the Colorado National Guard and Serve Colorado. The CONG/AmeriCorps pilot program, launched in May 2025, brings together the expertise of the National Guard with the energy and dedication of AmeriCorps members to mitigate wildfire risks and prepare the next generation of public service leaders and conservation professionals.

Key Takeaways:

  • The CONG/AmeriCorps pilot program represents the first time in history that a state service commission has combined National Guard service with AmeriCorps service, demonstrating the power of service to protect communities while creating meaningful career opportunities.
  • The program integrates national service with military readiness, positioning Colorado as a national leader in service-based climate resilience and workforce development.
  • The three-member crew completed a full wildfire mitigation season, working closely with Serve Colorado, the Colorado National Guard, Rocky Mountain Youth Corps, Colorado Youth Corps Association, and the Department of Natural Resources.
  • Two crew members have already received full-time wildland firefighting job offers following their service, demonstrating the program's effectiveness in translating service into career opportunities.
  • The pilot has garnered national attention as a model for integrating national service with military readiness and workforce development, offering lessons for other states and agencies seeking innovative approaches to public service and climate resilience.
  • The program has deepened state-federal coordination and showcased the power of cross-sector solutions to meet urgent statewide needs.
  • Lt. Governor Dianne Primavera and Major General Robert Davis, Colorado's Adjutant General and Executive Director of the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, praised the partnership, highlighting its innovative spirit and dedication to service.
  • Scott Segerstrom, Executive Director of the Colorado Youth Corps Association, added that the program represents the best of what partnerships with the federal government can achieve in terms of protecting lives and communities.
  • U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper commended the initiative, noting its national significance and the potential for Colorado to be a leader in service-based climate resilience and workforce development.

Statistics:

  • The CONG/AmeriCorps pilot program launched in May 2025.
  • The program positions Colorado as a national leader in service-based climate resilience and workforce development.
  • Two crew members have received full-time wildland firefighting job offers following their service.
  • The pilot has completed a full wildfire mitigation season, working closely with several agencies.
  • The program has garnered national attention as a model for integrating national service with military readiness and workforce development.

Sources:

  • Colorado Governor's Office news release (no date) - https://www.colorado.gov/governor/news/lt-governor-dianne-primavera-and-major-general-robert-davis-visit-colorados-first