Natural & Working Lands

Natural and working lands are foundational to the Sierra region’s economy, environment, and identity. From forest stewardship and watershed management to ecological restoration and sustainable wood utilization, this sector plays a critical role in wildfire resilience, climate adaptation, and community health. As demand grows for trained professionals in forestry, environmental quality, and land management, we’re working to expand local education, training, and career pathways that integrate traditional ecological knowledge, tribal leadership, and sustainability-focused practices.

Sector Snapshot

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Explore key workforce and industry data shaping the Sierra region. These insights, sourced from Lightcast, highlight employment trends, in-demand occupations, and economic drivers across our priority sectors.

Overview

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Workforce Health

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Workforce Composition

Industry Landscape

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Educational Pathways

for the Sierras

Columbia College’s Forestry & Natural Resources program prepares students for careers in forest stewardship, watershed management, and natural resource conservation. With hands‑on training on campus and at the High Sierra Institute, students gain practical skills and field experience in areas like forestry, watershed practices, GIS, and soil resources. The program offers certificates and associate degrees that equip learners for immediate workforce entry or provide a transfer pathway to four‑year universities.

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Cerro Coso Community College offers a range of welding and industrial arts programs that prepare students for high-demand careers in manufacturing, fabrication, and skilled trades. Students can pursue a Welding Technology AS degree or earn specialized certificates in Welding Processes and Industrial Process Technology. These programs provide hands-on training and industry-recognized credentials that equip graduates with the skills needed to thrive in today’s manufacturing workforce.

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Modesto Junior College’s School of Health Professions offers some of the most comprehensive healthcare training in the region, including programs in Registered Nursing, Vocational Nursing, Respiratory Care (AS & BS), Medical Assisting, Nurse Assistant, and Pharmacy Technician. With strong clinical partnerships and a commitment to meeting local healthcare needs, MJC prepares students for meaningful careers that strengthen community health.

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Support for Sierra Region Employers

We're here to help your business succeed.

From hiring support and workforce training to funding navigation and regional data, we connect you to tools and resources that help local employers grow.

Recruitment & Hiring

Easily post job openings online—or just give us a call and we’ll do it for you. Set up automated candidate searches that deliver resumes directly to your inbox, or browse qualified applicants at your convenience. Need help hosting a hiring event? We can support your next virtual or in-person job fair, including outreach and customized presentation materials.

Up-Skill Training

Invest in your workforce with training opportunities that build skills, boost productivity, and keep your business competitive in a rapidly changing workplace. Upskilling your current staff not only reduces recruitment costs - it also helps close critical skill gaps from within. Contact your local Mother Lode Job Training office to learn if your business is eligible for training funds.

On-The-Job Training

Reduce hiring costs and grow your team with On-the-Job Training (OJT). This program reimburses employers for a portion of the costs associated with training new hires. While learning the job, participants gain hands-on experience with your tools, equipment, and workplace environment. Upon successful completion of the training period, you have the opportunity to retain well-prepared employees as part of your regular workforce.

Host With Us

Need space for interviews or a hiring event?
Our facilities are available to support your recruitment needs. Host your next job fair in our spacious Community Room or reserve a private office or meeting room for interviews and partner meetings. Office equipment is available on-site for your convenience—and we can even help schedule interview appointments for you.

Layoff Assistance

If your business is facing layoffs or a potential closure, we’re here to help. Our team can connect you with resources to support affected employees, explore retraining options, and even help you restructure to retain talent and stabilize your workforce.

Labor Market Data

The Mother Lode region is experiencing strong labor market growth, driven by talent in key industries like advanced manufacturing, healthcare, construction, hospitality, and natural resources. We provide up-to-date data on job growth, industry trends, and employment statistics—empowering you to make informed decisions about hiring, expansion, and business strategy.

Business Consulting

Looking to grow or launch your business? Whether you're just getting started or planning your next phase of growth, we're here to support your success with practical, actionable guidance.

Pathways & Partnerships

We bridge the gap between industry, education, and workforce to strengthen career pathways and expand opportunities across the Sierra region. By aligning training programs with real-world needs, we help develop a skilled talent pipeline that supports both regional employers and lifelong career success.

Get connected to the support for your business.

Send us an email at businessservices@mljt.org

or call (209) 588-1150

Explore Workforce Development Services

Serving Amador, Calaveras, Tuolumne and Mariposa Counties.