Idaho Jobs Explained is an innovative new project to help teenagers and young adults explore in-demand careers across Idaho. Through a monthly video series, educational resources, and social media content, the project highlights various industries, featuring real employees and career pathways. Each episode takes viewers inside a different Idaho business, where host Matthew Baltzell interviews professionals at different stages of their careers. Inspired by shows like Dirty Jobs, Idaho Jobs Explained makes career exploration fun, engaging, and informative.
The project is produced in partnership with the Idaho Workforce Development Council, the Idaho Department of Education, and Next Steps Idaho.
In addition to the video series, Idaho Public Television’s education department is expanding the project’s reach across all age groups. For younger learners in preK–3rd grade, PBS KIDS curriculum is being aligned with Idaho’s College and Career Readiness Competencies, with new resources developed in collaboration with educators and a focus on promoting career-focused PBS KIDS content.
For high school students, Math in Idaho Industry videos will connect math coursework to real-world applications in key Idaho industries. These videos will be accompanied by classroom materials and lesson plans to support deeper learning and engagement.
Through Idaho Jobs Explained, we at Idaho Public Television are building on our commitment to educating Idaho’s next generation by helping young people explore career paths that align with their passions and skills. Our team combines expertise in storytelling with a deep understanding of Idaho’s industries, ensuring this project serves as a meaningful resource for students, educators, and employers across the state.
“I'm so excited to be working on Idaho Jobs Explained," says series creator and host Matthew Baltzell. "I’ve lived in Idaho for years, and I know how hard it can be to figure out what you want to do with your life when you're just starting out. This project is all about making that process a little easier and a lot more fun. We’re exploring all kinds of in-demand careers across the state and talking to the real people who do the jobs every day. I think mixing my sense of humor with expert advice and hands-on experiences is a great way to connect with young Idahoans who are trying to figure out their next steps.”
Idaho Jobs Explained is designed to inspire and inform teenagers and young adults, particularly those in high school or just starting their career journeys. This audience includes:
- Students exploring post-high-school career options.
- Young adults seeking pathways to lifelong careers in Idaho’s in-demand industries.
- Educators and career counselors who can use the content as a resource to guide students.
- Parents of teenagers who want to help their children explore practical and fulfilling career opportunities.
- The project also appeals to employers and industry leaders looking to connect with the next generation of workers and showcase career opportunities in their fields.
Idaho Jobs Explained will produce a monthly video series highlighting in-demand industries and career paths across the state. These 3-to-5-minute episodes will take viewers inside different Idaho workplaces, featuring real employees at various stages of their careers. By showcasing firsthand experiences and insights, the series provides an engaging, in-depth look at the skills and opportunities available in each field.
In addition to these main episodes, Idaho Public Television will keep the conversation going between video releases with shorter social media content. These clips will include career advice, soft skills tips, and practical tools that can be applied to any industry, ensuring young adults have a continuous stream of valuable insights and guidance.
The web series will not only air on broadcast television but will also be available online, allowing teachers, students, and parents to access these career resources at any time. By making this content widely available, Idaho Jobs Explained ensures that young people across Idaho have the tools and knowledge they need to explore and pursue fulfilling careers.