Over 300 students learn how to pursue a career in conservation
National Pheasant Fest & Quail Classic came to the Kansas City community during the first weekend of March 2025. Before the festivities began, Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever team member Levi Day spent a day at Lee’s Summit High School, helping over 300 students learn about potential careers in the world of wildlife conservation.
“We want to help students learn about the wide variety of job opportunities, beyond being a biologist or conservation officer, and unveil that the Journey to Conservation Careers Course is now free for students,” Day said. “Introducing students this program is a great way to get started in this field.”
The Journey to Conservation Careers program was developed in partnership between Pheasants Forever, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Bellevue University. This self-paced, online program features lessons around biology, ecology and upland habitat. Additionally, students will learn about the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation, the Pittman Robertson Act and the role Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever play in conservation.
Day completed his visit to Lee’s Summit High School alongside two members of the Missouri Department of Conservation and OnX Hunt team member, Nate Akey. They discussed careers in marketing and technology, being a K-9 conservation officer and education and outreach specialist.
“My son and I so enjoyed the conservation career panel presented through the Lee’s Summit School District,” said Amy Mothersbaugh, a Lee’s Summit teacher. “The presenters from Phesants Forever/Quail Forever, OnX Hunt, and the Missouri Conservation Department provided us with lots of great information about opportunities available to high school students interested in future careers in the field of conservation and the path to achieve that goal.”
The Journey to Conservation Careers Course is now offered FREE to participants through Bellevue University. Visit this site to learn more about the program and what it can do for you and your future, or click here to begin the registration process.
“We want to inspire the next generation of youth to protect our environment,” Day said. “This program provides the tools and information to pave career opportunities and shape their future decisions around habitat conservation.”
For additional questions about this program, contact Levi Day at LDay@PheasantsForever.org or at (208) 550-0580.