International Day of Women and Girls in Science
Today is International Day of Women and Girls in Science. At Forestry and Land Scotland we are lucky to have our own team of scientists, engineers and conservationists developing our forests and championing sustainable land management.
We want to mark the occasion by highlighting some of the stories of women working in science roles in our organisation. We also asked them to reflect on their career journey so far and offer advice to other women and girls looking to get into a similar career.
Emma Staniforth
Work Based Learning Manager
I came into FLS as an Modern Apprentice learning the role of a craftsperson, getting training on the job and passing tickets that allowed me to work safely and competently. I then secured a full time permanent post with FLS and spent a couple of years as a Craftsperson in the recreation team.
I then moved into a role managing other apprentices and helping business areas to understand what apprenticeship programmes were on offer and how we could offer these to the wider FLS business. Since then my career has developed and I am now a Work Based Learning Manager.
Throughout my career journey I have gained an SVQ in Trees and Timber at SCQF level 5 and 6, then completed a HNC in Forestry.
I didn’t have any idea about Forestry before applying for the role as an apprentice but thought it was an excellent route into what, to me, was a new industry. The apprenticeship gave me the opportunity to learn from experienced staff whilst doing the job and earning a wage at the same time. If anyone is interested in entering into a new career, I would suggest speaking to as many people as possible about the jobs that are on offer and looking into different ways that you can enter the industry as there could be different routes that suit you better than others.
Ewa Green
Despatch and Logistics Manager
I began my career in nursery production in 2011, and now I manage the plant despatch and logistics processes for our delivery teams nationally. I think there are good career opportunities for women in forestry, and I would encourage anyone considering employment in our industry to get involved.
Jessica Weetch
Data Science Graduate Apprentice
I saw the opportunity advertised online and I was looking to retrain within data specifically so my role was the perfect opportunity to do this. I originally studied Zoology and Conservation but struggled to find a role that suited me. I always had an affinity for data and statistics so began to explore ways to specialise in this whilst combining it with the conservation elements, which were my main passion from my first degree.
This opportunity has been amazing for me and I have been studying for my BSc in Data Science whilst working and gaining experience in the role. It allows me to work directly with data and indirectly with land management and conservation practices. I find a lot of fulfilment in my work and enjoy the diverse developments I am involved with.
Would you like to learn more?
Are you looking for a new scientific role? We offer a variety of opportunities and consider all backgrounds. You can find out more about what roles are available by heading to the current opportunities page on our website.