In addition to cultivating the next generation of natural resource leaders through our academic programs, our college empowers industry professionals, community members and public organizations to become effective environmental stewards through outreach and professional services.

Through distance education programs, workshops, short courses, certificate programs, field days and a variety of other learning opportunities, you can build new skills, advance your career and contribute to a more productive, efficient and sustainable future.

Forest Biomaterials

Professional Development and Continuing Education Courses

• The dry kiln operator’s short course is a four-day event offering practical knowledge and scientific background on kiln-drying lumber.
• The hands-on workshop for pulp and paper basics is a weeklong lecture, lab and pilot plant experience that covers all aspects of the paper industry.
• The environmental life cycle analysis hands-on workshop is an intense, one-week lecture and computer lab experience using robust commercial life cycle assessment software, which is provided.

Forestry and Environmental Resources

Extension Forestry

• Extension Forestry holds events year-round to share research-backed knowledge with landowners, industry professionals and others.
• Southern Regional Extension Forestry surveys current forestry challenges and industry trends in its webinar series.

Professional Development and Continuing Education Courses

• The Introduction to Southeastern Prescribed Fire online training course prepares participants to conduct planned burns, the first step toward state burner certification.

Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management

Tourism Extension

• The NC Hospitality and Pride course offers training on customer service, communication, relationship building and the importance of local knowledge to businesses across the state 

Professional Development and Continuing Education Courses

• In partnership with the Oglebay School in West Virginia, the Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management sponsors programs in revenue development, state park leadership, sustainability and more.
• Recreation Resources Service’s continuing education programs includes video conferences, webinars, certifications, workshops and more to support parks and recreation professionals and the communities they serve.

Youth Educational Outreach

Forest Biomaterials

• Faculty members are available to visit your classroom and provide an engaging presentation on paper making and recycling. Designed for upper-level high school and introductory college science classes, these sessions explore the science behind paper production and the environmental considerations of using natural materials, such as wood, to create everyday products. For scheduling and availability, email contactfb@ncsu.edu.

Forestry and Environmental Resources

• The 4-H Forestry and Wildlife program gives 4‑H students hands-on opportunities to explore sustainability and natural resource management. Participants can engage in wildlife habitat education, take part in forestry contests and projects, and attend interactive presentations on forestry and wildlife topics
• Project Learning Tree provides curriculum materials and hands-on workshops to support pre-kindergarten and K-12 educators in teaching students to think critically about the environment and build meaningful connections with nature.