The natural resources profession is entering a period of tremendous opportunity and change. Demand for skilled professionals in wildlife biology, ecology, forestry, fisheries, wetland science and related fields is expected to grow in the coming years. At the same time, employers increasingly seek professionals with diverse technical expertise, strong communication abilities, interdisciplinary knowledge and practical field experience.
As the profession evolves, universities face an important question: Are we preparing students with the knowledge, skills, and experiences needed to succeed in today’s workforce?
To help answer that question, I am conducting a nationwide survey of natural resource professionals to identify the academic content, field techniques, professional competencies and workplace skills most important for career success. The results of the survey titled “Help Shape the Future of the Natural Resources Profession” will be used to develop a career-readiness tool database designed to better prepare students for careers in natural resources while increasing transparency about pathways to employment.
Why this project matters
Although employment opportunities in natural resources continue to expand, the profession has historically faced challenges in recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce. At the same time, modern natural resource management has become increasingly interdisciplinary, requiring professionals to possess a broader and more complex set of skills than ever before.
Students often enter college with different levels of exposure to natural resources careers. Some have access to mentoring, internships, outdoor experiences and professional networks, while others may have little familiarity with career expectations or professional development opportunities. This information gap can create barriers for students attempting to navigate career pathways.
The goal of this project is to help level the playing field by providing aspiring professionals with direct guidance from individuals currently working in the field.
Developing a career-readiness tool
The proposed career-readiness tool, a database to help students and educators better understand how to prepare for the natural resources field, will be built from feedback provided by practicing natural resource professionals. By compiling information from a large number of natural resource professionals across multiple disciplines, the tool will help students better understand:
- Educational requirements for various career paths
- Technical skills most valued by employers
- Important field and laboratory techniques
- Professional competencies needed for advancement
- Career experiences that improve employability
- Emerging trends within the profession
The database will allow students to compare career paths, identify skill gaps, and prioritize educational and professional development opportunities that align with their career goals. Rather than relying solely on anecdotal advice, students will have access to insights derived directly from professionals working throughout the natural resources sector.
Benefits for students and educators
The project is intended to benefit not only students but also colleges, universities and employers. For students, the tool can provide greater clarity, confidence and preparedness when pursuing careers in wildlife conservation, ecological research, forestry, fisheries management, wetlands and other natural resource professions. For educators, the survey findings can help inform curriculum development and experiential learning opportunities. Professional feedback can identify areas where academic programs may better incorporate workforce-relevant training and professional skills.
Previous research has emphasized the importance of integrating skills, such as communication, collaboration, structured decision-making, leadership, consensus-building and professional problem-solving.
By understanding employer expectations and workforce needs, academic programs can more effectively prepare graduates for successful careers in natural resource conservation, management, and research.
A request to natural resource professionals
The success of this initiative depends on participation from practicing professionals across the natural resources field.
Whether you work as a wildlife biologist, ecologist, forester, fisheries professional, wetland scientist, environmental consultant, conservation practitioner, natural resource manager or in some other capacity as a wildlifer, your experience and perspective are valuable.
By sharing insights from those currently working in the field, this project aims to strengthen workforce readiness, improve accessibility to career information, and support efforts to build a more diverse and effective natural resources profession.
Your participation can help shape the future of conservation education and ensure that tomorrow’s professionals are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to meet the complex challenges of natural resource management.
The survey takes approximately 10 minutes to complete and seeks feedback regarding the knowledge, skills and competencies most important in your profession. The information gathered will contribute directly to the development of a career-readiness resource that can help guide future generations of conservation professionals.
For questions regarding participant rights, contact Jeffry Porter, Director of Sponsored Projects and Research Administration, Millersville University, at Je***********@**********le.edu.
Click here to take the “Help Shape the Future of the Natural Resources Profession survey.”
Article by Aaron Haines
