Today’s employer advice is from Paige Unangst, Finance Director at Friends of the Columbia Gorge.
Q: Tell us about your organization.
Friends is the only conservation group entirely dedicated to protecting, preserving, and stewarding the Gorge.
We led the fight to protect the Gorge by helping create the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area over 40 years ago. We’ve been working ever since to safeguard the Gorge and make sure the natural wonders found today will be preserved for generations to come.
But being an effective long-term advocate and steward of this amazing place means building bridges across different points of view. It also requires bringing together a broad and diverse coalition of people who share a common love for the Gorge and want to see it responsibly stewarded and protected.
Q: What advice would you give to people in midlife who want to transition to a green job?
Be flexible, apply for positions and highlight your skills that are transferable to a new position. Describe why you are wanting to make a change in your cover letter. Help those who are hiring to understand your commitment to the change you are wanting to make.
Q: What are the skills that you believe will be required most in the short-medium term in your industry?
Flexibility, curiosity, and commitment.