PowerCorpsBOS Cultivates Green Careers and a Greener Sanctuary at the Boston Nature Center

Growing Careers, Caring for the Sanctuary

At the Boston Nature Center (BNC), a quiet but powerful transformation is underway—driven by the energy, skills, and commitment of young adults participating in PowerCorpsBOS. Now in its third year hosting the program, BNC serves as a training space for early-career green industry professionals. Their hard work is paying off, visible in improved trails, restored habitats, and an enhanced  visitor experiences.

About PowerCorpsBOS

PowerCorpsBOS is a 10-month “earn and learn” workforce development program that prepares Boston’s young adults for living-wage jobs in environmental and sustainability fields. Each Tuesday from June through October, a rotating crew of 15 interns arrives at BNC to learn, contribute, and build the skills necessary for a future in the green sector.

Visible Impact on Trails, Gardens, and Habitats

Last season, interns tackled everything from invasive plant removal to trail repair and garden upkeep. They cleared vegetation from popular paths, replaced broken safety rails along boardwalks, and helped maintain the community garden’s education plots. Their efforts have made the sanctuary trails more accessible, gardens more inviting, and wildlife habitats healthier—all of which directly improve the experience for the thousands of people who visit the 67-acre urban oasis each year.

Notable accomplishments from last year include:

• Buckthorn removal in the Red Maple Swamp
• Invasive species clearing along the Fox Trail
• Repairing safety rails on Rabbit and Fox boardwalks
• Compost spreading and pathway maintenance in the Clark Cooper Community Garden
• Fence repair and landscape maintenance across the property

Skills That Go Beyond the Worksite

While the work benefits BNC visitors, the primary goal of PowerCorpsBOS is to equip young adults with hands-on experience and exposure to green industry careers. Interns learn a wide range of skills—everything from safe tool use and landscaping to light carpentry, habitat restoration, and sustainable technology. Through mentorship and daily projects, they gain the confidence and experience that can lead to long-term careers in conservation, parks management, and green construction.

Crew leaders play an essential role in guiding and supporting interns as they grow their technical and professional skills. For some interns, BNC staff may also serve as professional references and help with networking opportunities beyond the program.

A Stronger, More Welcoming Boston Nature Center

As you walk the trails, explore the gardens, or relax in the shade of native trees, you’ll see the results of applied, meaningful work by Boston’s next generation of green leaders. From repairing fences and clearing paths to restoring vital habitat, the contributions of PowerCorpsBOS interns are woven into every corner of the sanctuary.

Come see the transformation for yourself—discover the beauty, care, and commitment that makes the Boston Nature Center a vibrant place to learn, explore, and connect with nature.

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