What's Happening?
The Institute of Chartered Foresters (ICF) has introduced a new mentoring program aimed at supporting early-career professionals, career changers, and those seeking professional development in the forestry
sector. This initiative is designed to connect emerging professionals with experienced Chartered Foresters and Chartered Arboriculturists, facilitating the exchange of practical insights, technical knowledge, and professional experience. The program is supported by the Forestry Commission as part of the Sector Skills Plan, which recognizes mentoring as a crucial tool for building capacity, resilience, and excellence within the sector. The pilot program is currently open to mentees based in England and Wales, with potential expansion to Scotland. Funding from the Welsh Government will support eight mentee places in Wales, with efforts to accommodate Welsh-speaking participants.
Why It's Important?
This mentoring program is significant as it addresses the need for knowledge transfer and skill development in the forestry sector, which is crucial for sustaining and advancing the industry. By facilitating connections between experienced professionals and newcomers, the program aims to enhance the skills, confidence, and professional capabilities of participants, ultimately benefiting the entire sector. This initiative also highlights the importance of intergenerational knowledge sharing in maintaining the vitality and innovation of the forestry industry. The support from the Forestry Commission and the Welsh Government underscores the program's potential impact on workforce development and sectoral resilience.
What's Next?
The ICF is currently inviting applications from prospective mentors and mentees, with the pilot program open to participants in England and Wales. Discussions are underway to potentially extend the program to include participants from Scotland. As the program progresses, it is expected to foster stronger professional networks and enhance the overall skill set within the forestry sector. The success of this pilot could lead to further expansion and adaptation of the program to meet the evolving needs of the industry.
