My Forestry Journey

My journey into forestry began with a passion for the outdoors and a deep respect for nature. Growing up just north of Muskoka, Ontario, I spent my days biking, canoeing, hiking and swimming. By the time I finished high school, I was unsure what career path to embark upon. After one semester at university pursuing environmental studies, I realized it wasn’t the right direction. At that time, I didn’t even know that exciting outdoor careers existed.

Leaving university, I worked at Arrowhead Provincial Park and discovered a variety of green careers. A friend recommended the Fish and Wildlife Technician program at Fleming College. That fall, I began an incredible journey. The two-year program provided me with valuable skills, and inspired by friends in the Forestry Technician program, I decided to complete a second diploma. Forestry clicked for me because it combines science, sustainability and resource management. The Fleming community, my loggersports teammates and my hockey friends made the experience unforgettable, teaching me the importance of balancing academics, teamwork and social connections.

Encouraged by a professor, I decided to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Forestry at the University of New Brunswick (UNB) after finishing my diplomas. Before transitioning to UNB, I gained hands-on experience as a Resource Management Technician with the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry. This role exposed me to forest health surveys, invasive species management and habitat restoration, which further confirmed my commitment to forestry.

Moving to New Brunswick was a leap of faith, especially during the pandemic. While challenging, UNB deepened my understanding of sustainable forest management and introduced me to tools like GIS mapping and forestry inventory analysis. Beyond academics, I joined the UNB Woodsmen team, where I built friendships, a sense of community and strengthened my resilience and adaptability.

After graduating, my husband and I moved to Vancouver Island, British Columbia, where I started my career as an Engineering Assistant in coastal forestry. It was a steep learning curve—literally—but I embraced the challenges. The opportunities of navigating steep terrain and staying in logging camps has taught me valuable lessons in perseverance and has rewarded me with unique experiences.

Highlights include; helicopter rides over coastal mountains, discovering hidden waterfalls and collaborating with First Nations communities on land management projects. These moments continue to reinforce my passion for forestry and my commitment to sustainability and stewardship.

Today, as a Registered Professional Forester (RPF) and Forestry Field Engineer, I lead engineering crews, design roads, conduct silviculture surveys and ensure environmental compliance.

Mentorship has been a cornerstone of my journey, from professors to colleagues and through initiatives like Project Learning Tree’s Green Mentor program, where I gained confidence and built my network.

Looking back, my path has been anything but straight. Each twist and turn has taught me resilience and brought me closer to where I am today. Forestry is more than a career; it’s a calling that combines my love for the outdoors with sustainability and making a lasting impact.

My advice for anyone considering this field? Embrace challenges, keep the bigger picture in mind and never stop learning. The forestry world is small, connected, and full of incredible people. I’m proud of how far I’ve come and excited for the adventures ahead.

Stephanie Horsfield