Troops to Timber: A New Workforce Pathway Rooted in Rural Impact

A forestry operator works with heavy equipment—exactly the kind of hands-on, safety-focused training Paul Smith’s College will expand through its new Troops to Timber (T2T) workforce initiative, funded by a $1 million NBRC Forest Economy Program grant. The program prepares veterans, military families, and other jobseekers for careers in forestry, logging, arboriculture, and forest management.

Paul Smith’s College has received a million dollar grant from the Northern Border Regional Commission’s (NBRC) Forest Economy Program to launch Troops to Timber (T2T), a workforce initiative preparing veterans, military families, and other jobseekers for skilled careers in forestry, logging, arboriculture, and forest management.

The timing is urgent: 33 percent of veterans struggle to find a job that matches their education, training, or experience. Through T2T, participants will gain skills through an expanded curriculum, training equipment, safety certifications, and hands-on experience with employers. The program also aligns with New York governor Kathy Hochul’s “Next Move NY” initiative and North Country Regional Economic Development Council priorities focused on workforce development pipelines and support for veterans and military communities in northern New York.

Paul Smith’s College is part of the EPIIC award, Partnering to Advance And Drive Innovation on Sustainability and the Environment (PARADISE).

“Troops to Timber is a powerful example of what Paul Smith’s College does best: deliver immersive, hands-on forestry education that directly meets the workforce needs of the North Country,” says Brett McLeod, Dean of Faculty and Professor of Forestry at Paul Smith’s College. “We are helping drive the growth and resilience of the North Country’s forest-based economy by equipping transitioning soldiers and veterans to translate their military skills into high-demand forestry careers.”

T2T reflects Paul Smith’s College’s deep and historic commitment to serving veterans and transitioning service members. Since opening its doors in 1946 — when World War II veterans made up a significant share of the college’s first class — Paul Smith’s College has supported military-affiliated students through dedicated programming and outdoor and technical training. During its first year, T2T will launch six micro-credential courses at Fort Drum and introduce the college’s first hybrid Forestry Certificate program, training up to 20 participants with plans for future expansion.