The Institute is delighted that Tom Jenkins FICFor has been awarded the Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for services to the Forestry Sector in the New Year Honours 2024 list.
Currently the Head of Forest Research in Wales, Tom’s long and distinguished career has led to a wealth of tree knowledge that has been used to significantly inform forestry practice and policy at both national and international levels.
Following the announcement of the award, Tom commented:
“I was simultaneously surprised and hugely flattered to have been nominated for this prestigious honour. To be publicly recognised for simply pursuing a passion is an incredible feeling. However, my involvement in the world of forestry has only been possible due to the unwavering support of my family, and to the generous encouragement I’ve received over the years from numerous knowledgeable individuals across our sector.”
In addition to his outstanding career achievements, Tom has contributed greatly to the Institute’s operations across a number of roles. Over the last three decades, he has been responsible for helping to significantly diversify membership whilst also passionately driving improvements in professional standards across the sector.
Louise Simpson, Executive Director of the Institute of Chartered Foresters, commented:
“The Institute could not be more delighted that Tom’s contribution to the forestry sector, and the Institute, has been recognised. Without dedicated and conscientious professionals like Tom, the Institute would not be able to grow, improve, and play its part in supporting forestry professionals to deliver targets in these very challenging times.”
Tom joined the Institute in 1991 and was successfully promoted to Professional Member status in 1995, subsequently achieving Fellowship in 2007. He served as an Assessor for the Institute’s examinations process between 2000–2006, before being appointed as the Moderator of the Examinations Board in 2007.
As a member of the Institute’s Professional & Educational Standards Committee for 16 years, Tom contributed to all aspects of membership admission and progression, the accreditation of academic courses, the continuing professional development of Institute members, and their continued adherence to the Institute’s Code of Conduct. Former Chair of the Examinations Board, Steve McCartney FICFor, commented that “Without the support of Tom Jenkins as Moderator, the Institute simply couldn’t have managed the assessment process. He has ensured consistency and fairness for all applicants.”
In addition to his roles in the Institute’s assessment processes, Tom has shared his encyclopaedic breadth of knowledge with members at Institute conferences, study tours and also online through the #MembersHour webinars. He currently represents the Institute on Defra’s Tree Health Policy Group.
Chief Forester for Scotland, Dr Helen McKay OBE FICFor CEnv, commented:
“Without exception Tom is positive, constructive and helpful. He should be commended for the encouragement of scientists and researchers at Forest Research, particularly women, to apply for membership of the Institute of Chartered Foresters.”
