Join Forestry Works - Immersive Learning for Teens

By Blake Jackson

The University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service and the Department of Forestry and Natural Resources (FNR) are launching the inaugural ForestryWorks Field Course, a weeklong, immersive learning experience for high school students across the state.

Held at Robinson Forest from June 22-27, the workshop is part of the ForestryWorks initiative, a collaborative effort to build a skilled workforce for the forestry industry.

“ForestryWorks was initially developed in Alabama to cultivate future professionals in the forestry sector,” said Frannie Preston, FNR extension and coordinator for the Kentucky branch of ForestryWorks. “This new field course at Robinson Forest and Wood Utilization Center is the perfect extension of that program, offering a robust, hands-on approach.”

Participants will engage in various forestry activities, including protecting habitats, timber harvesting, tree planting, and wood product manufacturing. They will gain practical skills in tree measurement, identification, felling, log bucking, and grading.

The course also explores wood products through sawmilling, lumber grading, and wood drying, providing a comprehensive understanding of forestry careers.

“This experience is designed for high school students who love the outdoors,” Preston said. “They’ll not only gain real-world knowledge of forestry and conservation practices but will also discover how these skills can lead to meaningful careers across the forestry spectrum.”

The field course is integrated with the Forest Worker Certificate Program, taught in agriculture classrooms statewide. This program equips students with practical forestry skills, addressing the growing demand for professionals who can balance forest management with community and ecosystem needs.

According to Preston, “Students who complete the certificate program will gain an introduction to Kentucky’s forests, from ecological stewardship to cutting-edge industry practices, and acquire practical skills and insights on diverse career paths including roles in environmental protection, timber harvesting, product manufacturing and more.”

The goal is to expand the certificate program to all 120 Kentucky counties, enabling students statewide to develop valuable skills and explore fulfilling careers outdoors.

Interested students can apply online, and further information is available through Frannie Preston at fmpr227@uky.edu.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-paul-hartley