Colorado Lt. Governor Dianne Primavera visited Steamboat Springs Thursday to meet with members of the state’s Colorado National Guard and AmeriCorps Wildlife Mitigation Crew, the first-ever in the nation.

The partnership between the Colorado National Guard and AmeriCorps will be used to strengthen wildfire resilience, build workforce skills and spark conversations and public service careers.

“This groundbreaking program demonstrates the power of service to protect our communities while creating meaningful career opportunities,” said Lt. Governor Dianne Primavera, in a statement. “By combining the expertise of the Colorado National Guard with the energy and dedication of AmeriCorps members, we are not only mitigating wildfire risks but also preparing the next generation of public service leaders and conservation professionals.”

The pilot program marks the first time in history that a state service commission has successfully combined National Guard and AmeriCorps services.

Launched in May, the program model integrates national service with military readiness, “positioning Colorado as a national leader in the service-based climate resilience and workforce development,” states a news release.

“Wildfires are getting more frequent and more dangerous,” said Sen. John Hickenlooper, in a statement. “This pilot program leverages the long history of service from AmeriCorps and the National Guard to strengthen our firefighting workforce and get more hands helping to protect our communities. It’s the kind of Colorado innovation the whole country can learn from.”

During Primavera’s tour in Steamboat Springs, crew members gave a tour of the project site, observing wildfire mitigation work across high-risk areas and discussing the program’s outcomes.

“This pilot program reflects Colorado’s commitment to innovation in public service, workforce development, and climate resilience,” the news release continues. “It offers a replicable model for other states and highlights the impact of strategic partnerships that bring together national service, military readiness, and community-based conservation efforts.”