The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) has announced the launch of its second cohort for the High School to Highway trainee program, offering high school seniors and recent graduates a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in roadway maintenance.
This initiative, starting in July 2025, promises full-time paid training across multiple locations in Oregon, including Bend, Roseburg, Seaside, and The Dalles.
Local Youth Job Opportunity
The High School to Highway program is more than just a job opportunity; it’s a gateway for young Oregonians into the world of transportation maintenance.
With a starting salary of $3,856 per month and the promise of a raise after six months, participants will work alongside seasoned mentors on dedicated crews tasked with repairing and preserving roads and bridges.
This initiative not only equips participants with valuable skills but also contributes to making Oregon’s roads safer.
Program Details
This program is part of ODOT’s broader strategy to engage young adults in transportation careers.
Funded by Federal-aid State Core Program Funds for Training, Education and Workforce Development Title 23, United States Code, Section 504(e), it aligns with other initiatives like internships and graduate programs aimed at building a skilled workforce.
Applications for the program are open through April 24, 2025. Interested candidates can apply by visiting www.ODOTJobs.com and searching for “H2H.”
The program is available in various locations across Oregon such as Arlington, Banks, Bates, Canyon City, Central Point, Condon, Gold Beach, Government Camp, Idleyld Park, Klamath Falls, La Grande, La Pine, Lakeview, Maupin among others.
What This Means for Local Residents
- Provides high school seniors and recent graduates with full-time employment opportunities.
- Offers hands-on training in roadway maintenance without requiring prior experience.
- Contributes to safer road conditions through improved infrastructure maintenance.
- Presents potential career pathways within ODOT post-program completion.
| Phase | Activities | Dates |
|---|---|---|
| Application Period | Candidates submit applications online | Until April 24, 2025 |
| Trainee Program Start | Participants begin hands-on training | July 2025 onwards |
In a Nutshell
The High School to Highway program represents an exciting opportunity for young residents eager to start their careers while contributing positively to their communities.
As this initiative unfolds across Oregon’s diverse landscapes, from urban centers like Bend to coastal towns like Seaside, it promises not only personal growth but also enhanced public safety through better-maintained infrastructure.
Sources: Oregon Department of Transportation Special Employment Programs, ODOT News Archive, and ODOT Jobs Portal.
Prepared by Ivan Alexander Golden, Founder of THX News™, an independent news organization delivering timely insights from global official sources. Combines AI-analyzed research with human-edited accuracy and context.
