Michael Mausbach, left, and Haley Armstrong share career development and financial wellness tips during the Angoon Career Fair. (photo by Emma Hamilton/Renewable Energy Alaska Project)
Spruce Root staff recently traveled to the community of Angoon to participate in a two-day career fair at Angoon High School.
Held alongside the second annual Kookesh Basketball Invitational, the event provided an opportunity to connect with students, community members, and local partners in meaningful ways.
During the fair, Workforce Development Program Manager Michael Mausbach and Financial Wellness Program Manager Haley Armstrong led a session for high school juniors and seniors on making any job climate-resilient and strengthening financial stability.
In Southeast Alaska, where livelihoods are deeply tied to the land and sea, climate resilience is both an environmental and economic necessity.
“The way we work, commute to and engage in our workplaces and communities shapes our collective ability to adapt,” Michael said. “Even in the face of uncertainty, we have control over how we contribute to a more climate-resilient future through our daily choices and professional practices.”
As a Native Community Development Financial Institute, Spruce Root supports businesses and workers in adapting to these changes by providing accessible capital, financial education, and workforce development rooted in Indigenous values of stewardship and sustainability.
Clay Good, left, is the Regional Energy Catalyst for the Sustainable Southeast Partnership, and spoke with students about career pathways in clean energy. (photo by Emma Hamilton/Renewable Energy Alaska Project)
Whether through funding climate-conscious businesses, promoting regenerative tourism, or fostering financial security, Spruce Root ensures that economic and climate resilience go hand in hand — helping communities thrive for generations to come.
In addition to their work with students, Michael and Haley provided a community presentation on Spruce Root’s full suite of services, including business development, workforce training, financial empowerment and loan programming.
Their insights helped students think about career paths that align with a sustainable future while strengthening their financial well-being.
“Climate-proofing your finances isn’t just about being prepared for uncertainty — it’s about building preparedness and enhancing habits that benefit both your finances and the climate,” Haley said “Simple actions like shopping second-hand or winterizing your home can positively impact the environment while saving you money.”
Through the visit, they strengthened relationships with program partners on the ground, watched student films commemorating the Angoon Bombardment Apology and connected with Cube Cove Reforestation Crew members.
Spruce Root remains committed to fostering economic resilience and environmental stewardship in Southeast Alaska. We look forward to continued collaboration with the community of Angoon.