The field of forestry consulting is booming all over the globe. The study of different types of forests, threats, and forestry management techniques is known as forestry. Governments, environmental agencies, lumber companies, and conservation groups frequently hire forestry consultants. A forestry consulting firm can offer a wide range of services, from timber cruising and inventory management to the installation of geographic information systems.
Forestry consultants come from a variety of educational backgrounds, ranging from geography to forestry. A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university is usually required of forestry consultants. Furthermore, a large number of consultants have earned a master’s degree in their field of expertise. Because the majority of this work is project-based, project management training or certification is becoming increasingly important.
Because a significant amount of work experience is required, working as a forestry consultant is typically a mid-career position. A strong background and field experience is provided by 10 to 15 years of forestry work experience with gradually increasing responsibility. The majority of forestry work is done on-site and requires living in remote areas around the world.
Anyone interested in forestry consulting should start by establishing a reputation in their area of expertise. One aspect is consistently delivering high-quality work. As a consultant, interpersonal skills, conflict resolution, and a business management perspective are all necessary. These soft skills can be learned gradually through experience, through a series of courses, or through executive coaching.
In forestry consulting, written and oral communication skills are valued far more than in other fields. The client is essentially purchasing the consultant’s skill and expertise. A written document, proposal, evaluation, or recommendation is almost always the final work product. Many people take business writing and English grammar courses to prepare for this type of work.
Consultants are expected to make presentations in front of groups, ranging from a small group of staff to senior executives, in addition to report writing skills. This skill can only be learned through practice. Executive coaching or volunteering for a dramatic production are both excellent ways to hone these abilities.
Adding these skills to your resume is a great way to get started in forestry consulting. Large multinational forestry consulting firms and smaller boutique or niche firms are the two types of forestry consulting firms. Consider the type of work you want to do, as well as your skills and experience. Before applying to a large multinational corporation, start small and gain valuable experience and business contacts.