An official website of the State of Georgia.
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is now accepting applications through November 16, 2026, for its 2027 Career Academy. This weeklong summer program gives rising high school juniors and seniors an opportunity to build new skills, explore career opportunities and gain hands-on experience in natural resources.
Scheduled for July 18-24, 2027, the Academy will be based at the Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center in Mansfield and the Jekyll 4-H Center on Jekyll Island.
Throughout the week, students will travel to locations across Georgia, including state parks, wildlife management areas, fish hatcheries, historic sites and coastal destinations. These experiences will showcase how DNR employees protect, manage, and conserve Georgia’s natural, historic and cultural resources. Students will explore fields such as conservation law enforcement, wildlife and fisheries management, habitat stewardship, state park operations and coastal conservation.
Students will have the opportunity to connect with DNR employees and hear about their career journeys. Participants may also be eligible to earn dual enrollment credit that can be applied toward Fish and Wildlife or Conservation programs at many technical colleges.
“The DNR Career Academy gives students a firsthand look at the many opportunities available within the Georgia Department of Natural Resources,” said DNR Commissioner Walter Rabon. “Through hands-on activities and time spent learning alongside experienced professionals, students can see how they can make a difference in conserving Georgia’s wildlife, protecting its lands and waters, and serving their communities. We encourage eligible students to apply and explore where a career with DNR could take them.”
The application period for the 2027 DNR Career Academy closes on November 16, 2026. Students must apply online at GaDNR.org/CareerAcademy.
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About the Georgia Department of Natural Resources
The mission of the Department of Natural Resources is to sustain, enhance, protect and conserve Georgia's natural, historic and cultural resources for present and future generations, while recognizing the importance of promoting the development of commerce and industry that utilize sound environmental practices.
