The National Environmental Health Association (NEHA) announces a new Career Exploration Program (CEP), which offers valuable opportunities for students interested in environmental public health careers across the U.S.-Affiliated Pacific Islands (USAPI) and freely associated states.
Overview:
What is Environmental Public Health?
Environmental public health is a branch of public health that focuses on the relationships between people and their environment, promotes human health and well-being, and fosters healthy and safe communities. Environmental health professionals work to identify, prevent, and control environmental risk factors that can impact human health.
Career Opportunities in Local Governmental Environmental Health Programs:
Local governmental environmental health programs offer rewarding career paths where professionals can make a direct impact on community health. Roles may include:
- Environmental Health Specialists
- Food Safety Inspectors
- Water Quality Analysts
- Vector Control Specialists
- Emergency Preparedness Coordinators
These positions address critical issues such as food safety, water quality, waste management, vector control, and climate change adaptation, which are particularly relevant to USAPI communities.
CEP Program Highlights:
- 200 hours of practical experience in environmental public health agencies across USAPI
- $6,000 student stipend provided directly by NEHA
- 4 to 6 month program period
- Locations include American Samoa, Federated States of Micronesia, Republic of the Marshall Islands, Republic of Palau, Guam, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), and Hawaii
- Open to students who have completed (or nearly completed) at least two years of study in environmental health, environmental sciences, public health, pre-professional programs, science-based disciplines, or healthcare-related fields with core science coursework
Benefits for Students:
- Gain hands-on experience in the field
- Explore career paths in environmental public health specific to USAPI
- Develop professional networks in the region
- Enhance employability post-graduation
- Receive a $6,000 stipend to support their participation
For more information on how to apply, please visit https://www.neha.org/career-exploration.