Identifying, training, and readying the next-generation workforce is important to the continued long-term success of sites across the U.S. Department of Energy Office of Environmental Management (EM ) complex, and a contractor at the Hanford Site continues to invest in programs to support this initiative.
EM Richland Operations Office (RL) contractor Hanford Mission Integration Solutions (HMIS) recently donated $150,000 to Columbia Basin College (CBC) in Pasco, Washington, for the Pathways to Hanford Program..
The program helps students envision a future career at Hanford and provides support, skills training and guidance as they build their career pathway. Participants will explore a variety of careers and skills needed; the contractors’ work and company values; internship programs; and the hiring process.
“Guiding students to the numerous opportunities at Hanford, including STEM careers, is vital," said Cameron Salony, Hanford Site STEM lead. “Programs like Pathways to Hanford, along with the contractor’s financial support, help local students learn about these opportunities and receive the support they need to join our Hanford team as we continue to achieve cleanup successes."
STEM stands for science, technology, engineering and math.
“HMIS has been an incredible community partner, supporting internships, hosting information sessions on campus and creating opportunities for our students," said CBC President Rebekah Woods. “This generous donation will allow us to strengthen and diversify the workforce pipeline by helping students go from Hawks (the CBC mascot) to Hanford."
The contractor’s donation will provide enhanced support for the Pathways to Hanford Program for the next three years. Beginning with an initial group of 15 students, program enhancements will include a range of services and support for students in their first years of the program.
“As a strong supporter of this program from its inception, we wanted to ensure students have the tools and resources they need to enter programs prepared, finish on time and be ready to enter the workforce," said HMIS Chief Operations Officer Amy Basche. “We know firsthand the importance of partnerships, like this, with our educational institutions, and know this donation will help prepare future generations of Hanford workers."
Source: U.S. Dept. of Energy, Office of Environmental Management