North Central Idaho Workforce Exploration Day held in Orofino

Apr 16, 2025
Apr 16, 2025 Updated Apr 23, 2025
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Nearly 400 students from across North Central Idaho gathered in Orofino on April 7, 2025, for the annual Workforce Exploration Day, an event designed to introduce young people to rewarding career opportunities in natural resources and related fields—many of which do not require a four-year college degree.

Hosted by local logging companies M. John Larson Logging and Jesse Hunt Logging, in partnership with the University of Idaho Extension Clearwater County, the event brought together students, professionals, and organizations with a shared goal: building a stronger local workforce and supporting the regional economy.

One of the event’s key organizers was Owen Henderson, a junior at Orofino Jr/Sr High School, who helped plan the event as part of his senior project—a graduation requirement he will complete next year.

“We are incredibly proud of the collaboration and enthusiasm shown by everyone involved, especially Owen,” said event organizers. “This is exactly the kind of community-led initiative that helps keep our youth informed, inspired, and invested in staying local.”

Special thanks go to the Idaho National Guard Armory, Staff Sergeant Tyrell Hanson, Sergeant Cory Pinque, the Idaho Department of Lands’ Jay Sila and Keith Brink, and the Clearwater Potlatch Timber Protection Agency’s Kane Steinbruecker, Tristan Benavidez, and Dillon Alexander for providing a fantastic event location, complete with ample space and easy access for students.

Lunch for presenters was generously provided by Idaho Forest Group and the University of Idaho College of Natural Resources. Nightforce Optics also played a key role as an event sponsor. Thank you to all who participated, including Dr. Ryer Becker and Dr. Randy Brooks of the UI College of Natural Resources, , Clearwater Hydraulics, Cody Steinbruecker Logging, Cold Springs Cutting, S & S Welding, Frank’s Towing, Idaho Truck Sales, Peters & Keatt’s Equipment, Jerry Cox Trucking, Bill Lowry Trucking, Les Schwab Tire Center, Western States CAT, Modern Machine, and Johnboy Towing.

The Workforce Exploration Day will continue to alternate annually between Kamiah and Orofino, ensuring that students across the region have ongoing access to local employers and career insights. The event highlights the importance of careers that support local families and the natural resource economy that defines much of North Central Idaho.