STUDENT PERSPECTIVE

Forestry students discuss their experience in the industry.

Sydney Goward

Biologist Assistant at Hinton Wood Products, of West Fraser Mills Ltd. Studying Natural Resource Science at Thompson Rivers University

Mediaplanet What compelled you to enter the forestry industry?

Sydney Goward I was born and raised in Williams Lake, BC — a small resource sustained community that is influenced largely by the forestry industry. Growing up here, I was fortunate enough to spend time outdoors camping, hunting, fishing, and hiking; all of which fostered a strong connection to the land and an appreciation for the environment. This is how I learned firsthand about the diverse and complex values of natural resources. When I came across my current post-secondary program while applying to universities, I knew it would be a perfect fit to capture my passion for the environment along with influencing sustainability in the industries that Canadian families rely on. My family has been involved in forestry for three generations now — it’s a huge part of who I am and our way of life.

Lindsay Albers

Energy and Bioproducts Co-op Student at Hinton Pulp and Lignin Facility, of West Fraser Mills Ltd. Studying Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at UNBC

MP How is your current school program related to the forestry industry? Did it help you enter the industry?

Lindsay Albers The University of Northern British Columbia is unique in that it offers a wide variety of disciplines that can easily become interconnected. I have a degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, yet my environmental science minor allows me to take courses in forestry, environmental health and planning, biology, Aboriginal studies, and environmental engineering. Forestry is not narrowed to only registered professional foresters or biologists. It is made up of an interdisciplinary framework where professionals from all backgrounds play key roles within the industry. The route that I took allows me to contribute more heavily to the research and development side of forestry, but at the same time my degree is just as valuable to silviculture, environmental efforts, public participation, and working with Canada’s rural and aboriginal populations.

Kevin Hogan

Energy Management Team Co-op Student at Canfor. Studying Chemical Engineering at UBC

MP People often think of forestry as a dying industry. What do you think of this statement? How do you see this statement in relation to your future in the industry?

Kevin Hogan I do not think it is true. The three mills in Prince George produce a specific kind of pulp known as Northern Bleached Softwood Kraft, as well as kraft paper. The fibres from the chips that are used, that come specifically from certain types of trees that are native to more northern areas such as that surrounding Prince George, in combination with the chemical pulping process, results in a very strong, high quality pulp that can be used for many different purposes. Many buyers of this pulp prefer this type of pulp over many others due to its higher quality and durability. Furthermore, the liquor recovery cycle creates a large amount of bio-electricity that is either re-used in the process or sold back to the BC electricity grid. With the high quality pulp that is made here, as well as how sustainable and green this process and industry are, I think that it will continue being an important industry for Canada for many years to come.

Melanie Flack

Process Engineering Co-op Student at Canfor. Studying Chemical Engineering at University of New Brunswick

MP What do you find most rewarding about working in this industry?

Melanie Flack I work in an industry that cares about the future of the planet. We are able to use natural resources while not destroying them in the long-term future. There are many industries that chemical engineers can work in that are not as environmentally friendly and have an irreversible effect on the world. It’s great to know I contribute to making a useful product while also supporting the planet I live on.

Adam Soames

Summer Silviculture Intern at Weyerhaeuser. Studying Natural Resource Science at Thompson Rivers University

MP What is a key piece of information you think people should be aware of regarding Canada’s forestry industry?

Adam Soames I think it is vital to understand the broad scope and importance of the forestry industry in Canada. In this time where sustainability and renewability have become subjects of great intrigue, forestry is often looked upon as a destructive force. I would counter by saying that, if done properly, forestry holds the potential to produce an endless supply of renewable and sustainable product. Trees are cut down and used to create houses, furniture, paper, tools, instruments, and a plethora of other products. Where it differs from some other natural resources is the fact that once those trees are harvested, they can be regrown. This can be done time and time again to provide these products to countless generations. We just need to be sure that we take into account the concerns of all involved parties, only take what is needed, and ensure that what is taken is carefully replaced.