Exploring Career Pathways, While Clearing Pathways For Fish

CCC Corpsmembers are giving endangered fish a fighting chance! By identifying obstacles at stream crossings, they’re clearing the way for fish to migrate upstream and reach their spawning grounds. At the same time, Corpsmembers are finding career paths and find meaning in their work.

“I don’t feel like I’m a superhero to the salmon or anything, but I do feel like this is where it starts,” said Corpsmember Mckayla Woodie. “I joined the CCC because I like conservation work. I like the idea of being a part of something bigger.”

Mckayla and her fellow Corpsmembers are indeed making a difference across California, by working on a large-scale project targeting small scale environmental impacts. Corpsmembers are assisting Caltrans by surveying anywhere that water may flow beneath a roadway, be it a bridge over a river or a stream through a culvert.

Chico Corpsmembers Jimmy Conrad and Jacob Garcia Silva listen as Redding Corpsmember James Lee explains data being viewed on a tablet during fish passage training in Redding, CA.

“All of our fish species are hugely valuable natural resources,” said Corpsmembers James lee. “They’re species that benefit not just people, but also wildlife. Getting out here and making some kind of impact makes you feel better about yourself and makes a difference.”

This project clears hurdles for both the fish and the Corpsmembers, providing valuable experience as they jump into the workforce.

“My goal in life is to be an environmental specialist,” Mckayla said. “I really love this work. Even though it’s small, I am creating such an impact.”

For young adults looking to explore fisheries or natural resource work, check out the CCC for your pathway to meaningful careers.

A Redding Corpsmember listens intently as a Caltrans representative explains the fish passage project.