(City of Pocatello Press Release, May 13, 2026)
The City of Pocatello is proud to announce the successful completion of its first Brownfields Job Training Program, with participants graduating and helping strengthen the local workforce.
In 2025, the City received an Environmental Protection Agency Brownfields Job Training Grant to build a skilled local workforce trained to safely address hazardous materials commonly found in older homes and buildings, including asbestos and lead-based paint. The program provides free training and certifications, helping remove barriers to entering environmental and construction-related careers.
Participants completed a four-course curriculum, including Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response, Lead Abatement Worker, Asbestos Supervisor, and Renovation, Repair, and Painting. These certifications prepare individuals to safely work with hazardous materials while opening the door to new career opportunities.
Through a partnership with the Southeast Idaho Council of Governments, also known as SICOG, the program is offered across seven counties in southeast Idaho, expanding access to workforce development opportunities.
Brownfields are properties where redevelopment may be complicated by hazardous substances, including former gas stations, dry cleaners, industrial sites, and older homes.
On May 7, Mayor Mark Dahlquist recognized the program’s first graduating class and encouraged others in the community to take advantage of future training opportunities.
The completion of this program marks an important step forward for the City, positioning Pocatello to better address environmental concerns and support future redevelopment.
“Through this training, these individuals have gained valuable skills that not only open the door to new career opportunities, but also strengthen our community’s ability to safely address environmental concerns, especially in older homes and properties,” said Mayor Mark Dahlquist.
The City plans to offer another training session this fall. Learn more about the Pocatello Brownfields Job Training Program here: Pocatello Brownfields Job Training Program.
