Simon Smith

"I am a big fan of the MSc Forestry programme. As a career changer, I came into the forestry profession with a strong project, change, and task management background but a limited forestry knowledge base. This meant I had to start at the very bottom of the pile.  Within 4 months of starting the MSc on a part-time, distance learning basis, I gained a role as an Assistant Forest Manager working for a private forest management company in North Wales. As I ticked off each academic year, I gained more confidence and quickly gained additional levels of responsibility, as well as getting promoted and transitioning to a new employer. I now manage some very complex sites and seem to be the person my Managing Director trusts with important stakeholders. 

I am in no doubt that the complexity and challenging nature of the assessments I was tasked with throughout the MSc firmly put me in the ‘stretch zone’, which is a key part of my relatively quick growth in the profession. I would like to thank all other staff involved in delivering the MSc for some very credible and challenging modules. I found that what I learnt on all the modules was directly transferable to the real world. I have used every module on the ground numerous times, and believe this course is pitched exactly at the right level for current practice, but with an important eye on future issues.

 I took an initial reduction in pay and level of responsibility when I moved into forestry but just three years later, I have nearly returned to the level of remuneration and responsibility I had in my previous career. The investment of time and money to do this course was a shrewd decision that I am glad I took.  I have no hesitation in encouraging anyone thinking of changing to a forestry career to jump in with both feet and grab each and every opportunity that comes your way."