Farwest Show offering Career Boulevard in 2026

The Oregon Association of Nurseries is offering the Career Boulevard at the 2026 Farwest Show, Aug. 26 to 28 in Portland, Oregon.

It’s designed to bring job seekers and employers together, but it’s more than a job fair. It’s a networking space, an educational resource, a nexus of mentorship and more, all in one.

“Those looking to plant the seeds of a nursery career will not find more fertile ground,” OAN Executive Director Jeff Stone said.

Career Boulevard will connect job seekers — whether they are prospective students, current students, recent graduates, career changers or people looking to make a move — with educators, industry experts, internship resources, scholarship information, job boards, networking and even a NexGen (next generation) social filled with like-minded people.

“Green industry careers are exciting,” said Connie Lindsay, trade show manager for the Oregon Association of Nurseries, which produces Farwest. “So many people love to spend time outdoors, around beautiful plants. A nursery career lets them explore their passion for sustainability, outdoor design and nursery production, but they need an entry way to unlock the opportunities."

"That’s why we have Career Boulevard — to help people find resources and new connections, and help employers find people with a passion for plants,” Lindsay continued. “Because when it comes down to it, the need is mutual, and it’s just a matter of helping people connect, conveniently, in one place.”

Those attending can seek scholarship guidance, visit a resume review station with live feedback from industry pros and educators, and get information on financial aid and college planning. Several organizations will be represented, including Chemeketa Community College, Clackamas Community College, Oregon State University, the Oregon Department of Agriculture and the Oregon Department of Forestry.

Farwest is held at the Oregon Convention Center in Portland. The Career Boulevard will be open during expo floor hours: 12 to 5 p.m. Aug. 26, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 27 and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Aug. 28.

The NexGen Networking Social will let job seekers and career explorers connect with peers and pros at a free event to help jump-start their professional network. The social will take place from 3:30 to 5 p.m. Aug. 26.

A three-day trade show pass to Farwest will be available to students and others for free using the code GROWHERE26. Students can get an education pass for $49 to access three days of expert-led educational seminars.