S&K Technologies Corporate Office, headquartered in St. Ignatius, Montana, got a visit from the Summer Youth Leadership program. The tribally affiliated work program is geared towards engaging local teenagers during summer break and nurturing their skill set.

“The program taught me a lot of things,” Dean Moran, 15, voiced when asked about his own experiences with the program. “We get to do a lot of maintenance and learn new things. On top of getting to do fun stuff, also.”

The program’s success is attributed to the leadership of Richard Alexander, maintenance/custodial worker for the Long House, who has a 30-year tenure with the program. Under his guidance, a group of seven enthusiastic teenagers embarked on a three-day work rotation at the SKT office in August, undertaking tasks such as weed eating and ground maintenance on the 10-acre property.

The diverse group of teenagers ranged in age from 15 to 18, most of whom were returning participants to the 6–8-week program. The group primarily aids Richard at the Long House and, when needed, supports local elders in the area with miscellaneous projects.

The Long House is a multipurpose facility for the Salish, Kootenai, and Pend d’Oreille people, providing learning opportunities and cultural services.

“My experience has been fun, not too hard, not too easy,” Kasen Page, 16, explained, herself a 3-year returning participant. “It’s not too stressful. Perfect for teenage kids to get out and be active.”

S&K staff Kathryn Martin, Executive Assistant, and Corey Badgley, Facility Security Manager, made sure the teens were taken care of during the project by providing lunches and drinks during their visit. Everyone at S&K extends a big thank you to the teens – their help made a noticeable difference, and we truly appreciate it!