Join us for this year’s Early Career Professionals Conference, Forestry Futures, a three-part webinar series for students and early career professionals working across forestry and arboriculture.
Exploring the themes of future forests, future workforce and future careers, the series will examine how the sector is responding to environmental, professional and economic challenges, while equipping participants with insights, knowledge and connections to help shape the future of the profession.
Through expert presentations and discussion, attendees will hear from professionals working across forestry, arboriculture, woodland creation, policy, business and land management, gaining a broader understanding of the opportunities, challenges and career pathways within the sector.
Session 1: Future Forests – Building Resilience in a Changing World
Tuesday 10 November | 15:00-16:30
How do we create resilient forests and tree populations in the face of climate change, pests, diseases and increasing environmental pressures?
This session will explore the practical approaches being used to improve resilience across the UK’s woodlands and treescapes, including species selection, adaptive management and long-term planning. Speakers will share examples from across forestry and land management, offering insights into how today’s decisions will shape the forests of tomorrow.
Speakers
Robert Coventry MICFor – Head of Forestry and Reserves, Clinton Devon
Eleanor Harris MICFor – Natural Capital Consultant
David White MICFor – Woodland & Climate Change Adaptation Adviser, Forestry Commission
Session 2: Future Workforce – Building Resilience and Influence in Foresters and Arboriculturists
Thursday 19 November | 15:00-16:30
How do we create resilient, capable and confident professionals?
As forestry and arboriculture continue to evolve, technical skills alone are not enough. This session will explore professional resilience, communication, leadership and influence, considering how individuals can build rewarding careers while helping to shape the future of the sector. Members will hear from experienced professionals about developing confidence, navigating career opportunities and contributing to a strong and effective workforce.
Speakers
Ros Burnley FICFor (Hon) – Director, Adrow Ltd
Elaine Heckley MICFor – National Manager Wales, Confor
Session 3: Future Careers – Business, Innovation and Leadership
Tuesday 24 November | 15:00-16:30
What does a modern career in forestry and arboriculture look like?
This session explores the commercial realities, emerging opportunities and changing career pathways shaping the sector. Speakers from across forestry, nurseries, woodland management and urban forestry will share insights into how businesses operate, where innovation is creating new opportunities, and how early career professionals can help attract and inspire the next generation.
Topics will include:
- How forestry and arboriculture businesses operate
- The commercial drivers behind woodland creation and management
- Emerging opportunities and innovations across the sector
- Leadership, influence and engaging future professionals
Speakers
Lea Brandes – Cell Grown Nursery Manager, Forestry England
Tom Coates MICFor – Supply Manager South, James Jones & Sons Ltd
Alex Forster MICFor – Senior Forest Manager, Tilhill
Catherine Nuttgens MICFor – Urban Forester, Nuttgens Urban Forestry
Additional Details
Ticket Type 1 - ICF Member (must book while logged into Members Area for discounted rate)
Ticket Price 1 - £55
Ticket Type 2 - Non-Member
Ticket Price 2 - £65
Ticket Type 3 - ICF Student Member (must book while logged into Members Area for discounted rate)
Ticket Price 3 - £30
Book Tickets
Additional Info
Don't worry if you can't attend all three sessions live as they will be recorded. Attendees will have access to the recordings for six months after the event.