Environmental Pathway

The Environmental sector engages students in environmental and sustainability studies through a coordinated, multidisciplinary approach. The three CTE pathways under this sector include Agriculture & Natural Resources, Water Quality, and Outdoor Recreation. Each of these pathways are poised to support student-driven learning to support sustainable practices in their local communities and protect our natural and man-made resources.

What is a Pathway?

At the Southwest Colorado Education Collaborative, we offer a variety of college and career pathways designed to provide students with a range of opportunities that allow them to explore their interests while gaining valuable skills and knowledge in a chosen field. Our pathways are designed to provide students with a seamless transition to college or the workforce through applicable high school and collegiate-level coursework, work-based learning opportunities, summer institutes, and authentic career experiences. We place a strong emphasis on student choice, allowing them to choose the pathways and opportunities that align with their interests. Each pathway is unique, and was designed in alignment with industry standards in order to prepare students for success in their chosen career.

The Southwest Region Aspires for an Environmental Sector that:

  • Provides local youth with the opportunities and skills needed to secure jobs in the natural resource industries essential to the southwest region

  • Is responsive and adaptive to the impacts of natural disasters on the economic resilience of southwest Colorado communities

  • Promotes policies and education to ensure the ongoing sustainability of traditional industries through innovative approaches to food production/distribution, energy, forestry, fire science, transportation, agriculture, and wildlife, and fish management

  • Empowers future generations by investing in the lasting resilience of watersheds, forests, and communities across the diverse southwestern region

Details for each of the Environmental Career & College Pathways:

Agriculture & Natural Resources

Pathway Summary: The Agriculture and Natural Resources pathway in Southwest Colorado encompasses a diverse range of activities, from high desert ranch lands to high elevation greenhouses. Students in this pathway will gain knowledge and skills related to sustainable agriculture practices, resource management, and food production/distribution.

Careers: Agricultural Technician, Conservation Scientist, Farm Manager, Horticulturist, Range Manager, Soil and Water Conservationist

Water Quality

Pathway Summary: Water quality and availability are of paramount importance in Southwest Colorado, as the Animas, San Juan, Los Pinos, and Dolores rivers serve as vital water sources for agriculture and recreation. This pathway focuses on understanding and managing water resources, monitoring water quality, and implementing conservation strategies.

Careers: Environmental Scientist, Water Quality Technician, Hydrologist, Water Resource Engineer, Environmental Consultant.

Outdoor Leadership & Recreation

Pathway Summary: Pathway Summary: Southwest Colorado's unique geographic location, nestled between deserts and high mountains, offers abundant recreational opportunities. This pathway equips students with the skills and knowledge to guide and lead outdoor activities responsibly, like skiing, mountain biking, river sports, backpacking, and other activities, emphasizing safety, environmental stewardship, and sustainable recreation practices.

Careers: Outdoor Adventure Guide, Wilderness Instructor, Recreation Program Coordinator, Outdoor Education Instructor, Park Ranger

Upcoming Opportunities

Work Based Learning

Check out our Events Calendar for work based learning opportunities such as job shadows, consulting projects, and internships.

Summer Institutes

The ECI Summer Institute hosted at Fort Lewis College by the SWCEC is a 5-day summer institute where students from local school districts work together to complete projects in their communities. Students will grow in their leadership, autonomy, and self-confidence as they put their minds and hands to work in helping their communities move towards more sustainable practices.

During ECI, students will also have access to Fort Lewis College student mentors, leadership training, and academic success programming. Team up with other high school students and leading experts in environmental topics in Southwest Colorado to engage in real-world and community centered projects. Take a deep dive into sustainable agriculture, forest health, environmental science, water quality, and more.

ECI is open to all high school students who attend Bayfield, Durango, Silverton, Archuleta, and Ignacio school districts. Not only is it free, but participants will receive a stipend of $250 following the completion of the institute. Participating students will stay in student housing at Fort Lewis College, with meals provided.

  • Fort Lewis College

    Pueblo Community College

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