WorkingNation is always looking for job and training pathways around the country. This week, we share findings from Alaska, Arkansas, Maryland, Mississippi, and South Carolina. Take a look.

From Alaska: Your Alaska Link reports smokejumpers have started preparing for fire season – with training sessions planned for the rest of this month, as well as in May.

From Arkansas: University of Arkansas announces the campuswide launch of its workforce development initiative – focusing on collecting information on UA workforce-related programs and an analysis of workforce development needs of business and industry.

From Maryland: MoCo360 reports Blueprint – Maryland’s education reform plan – aims to prep students for college and careers with support from career counselors.

From Mississippi: WJTV reports the state is allocating $1.4 million to boost career and technical education efforts at 25 high schools and districts across Mississippi.

From South Carolina: News From the States reports five major EV-related companies are looking to train residents for high-paying jobs.

Did you miss our previous Opportunity Near You and Back to Work stories from around the country? Catch up here.