How/Why I Become a Teacher:
I started teaching at Lakehead University in the (then) Forestry Faculty in 1982 because the opportunity arose from my graduate-level work in forest genetics. I stayed in teaching because I love inspiring students to appreciate the intricacies of the world around us.
What I You Like Most About Teaching:
Connecting with my students.
My Educational Background & Qualifications:
I graduated with an Honours Bachelor of Science in Forestry in 1979 and a Master of Science in Forestry in 1986, graduating with Commendation. I am a retired Registered Professional Forester (RPF Ret.).
Relevant Experience in the Field:
I have taught at the post-secondary level full- and part-time for over 30 years, and have set the Dendrology (tree identification) exam for the Ontario Professional Foresters Association (OPFA) for over 15 years. I have most recently become active in the Canadian College and University Environmental Educator's Network.
Hobbies & Other Interests:
I love to garden, and have recently taken up weaving and spinning with the local Weavers & Spinners Guild. I am active in a local Christian community, and have volunteered at a kid's camp (Camp Gitchigomee) in the summer for many years. We have five (sometimes six) dogs, ranging in size from 4-60 pounds (with a combined weight of under 100 pounds). I am passionate about opening others' minds and hearts to the reality of Canada as a nation of treaty people living on shared land.
Insight and words of advice regarding this program:
The Environmental Technician Program at Confederation College gives graduates a solid foundation in ecosystem management, especially in the management of water resources. Be prepared to be challenged and to get dirty. You will graduate with a keen understanding the intricacy of life and how ecosystems function; you will be able to look at the environment around you and really see what you are looking at.
Insight and words of advice regarding career opportunities in this field of study:
Graduates who do well in the program are equipped for a wide range of environmental jobs out-of-doors, in the lab, and in office-related activities. Employers look for people who can fulfill "other-duties as assigned", and graduates are exposed to as many different environment-related activities as we can fit into a two-year program.