At a time when B.C.’s forestry sector is struggling to attract young people, 30 year-old Castlegar resident Taylor Sand is an anomaly. Now in her final year of Selkirk College’s two-year forest technology diploma program, Taylor is committed to helping the industry move into a more sustainable era.
“My interest in forestry was sparked by a desire to create a lasting impact on the environment and to understand B.C.’s diverse ecosystems. I wanted to learn about sustainable forest management, forest health monitoring and strategies to combat increasing fire seasons — a critical issue in our changing climate,” she says.
More than 34%1 of B.C.’s forestry and logging workers are over 55-years-old, with only about 10% aged 24 or younger. Since 2021, the forestry sector has seen a 45% drop in employment. Looking forward, the sector may see employment growth or stability, driven by rising global demands2.
Sparking new interest in an old industry
Industry insiders would like to see more younger people join this sector but acknowledge a lack of interest in the field. During a 2022 B.C. Council of Forest Industries convention, for example, a panel discussion3 highlighted several factors that are likely deterring young workers, including a lack of understanding about the industry’s modernization efforts.
For Taylor at least, the assumption holds true. During her first year at Selkirk, Taylor studied B.C.’s forestry regulations, which govern harvesting and environmental protections. She says it was “eye-opening” to learn about the sector’s sustainability commitments, as well as recent shifts in B.C. government policy to prioritize ecosystem health and biodiversity.
“Looking ahead, I see promising developments in B.C.’s forestry sector. The shift towards modern forest policies prioritizing sustainability and stakeholder involvement signals a positive direction,” she says. “With a renewed focus on Indigenous leadership, old growth protection and responsible management practices, the sector is poised for meaningful change.”
Gaining skills for a hope-filled career
This summer, Taylor joined Wildsight’s Youth Climate Corps to gain paid, hands-on experience ahead of her graduation next spring. Her academic background brought a unique perspective to the team, especially during a wildfire mitigation project at the Salmo Ski Hill.
“Applying knowledge about forest succession and fire management during fuel modification projects at Salmo Ski Hill was incredibly fulfilling. Collaborating with teams from the West and East Kootenays, as well as Loki Tree Services, underscored the practical importance of our work in maintaining healthy ecosystems,” she says.
Being able to add projects like this to her resume could set Taylor up well for finding work in the transitioning industry. Far from feeling despondent about the forestry sector’s declining employment levels, Taylor believes there are plenty of job opportunities out there for young people with a future-focused mindset.
“For those considering a career in forestry, it’s important to recognize the sector’s diversity beyond traditional roles. Opportunities abound in ecosystem and forest health management, aligned with upcoming B.C. framework changes,” Taylor says.
To bring B.C’s forestry sector into a new era, we will need the fresh perspectives and optimism that young people like Taylor can bring. Her deep appreciation for our natural environment — and the strong sense of responsibility she feels to protect it — is a hopeful reminder that change is in the air.
“As I continue my education and career in this field, I am optimistic about the positive impact we can collectively achieve for B.C.’s forests and beyond. Addressing complex challenges will pave the way for a more sustainable and resilient future,” she says.
This year’s Youth Climate Corps Salmo Ski Hill project was supported by funding through a partnership with the Province of BC and the Columbia Basin Trust. Wildsight also acknowledges the many other community partners who make the YCC possible, including Arjay R. and Frances F. Miller Foundation, Canada Summer Jobs, Catherine Donnelly Foundation, Columbia Basin Trust, Eco Canada, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, Nature Canada, the Province of BC, the Regional District of Central Kootenay, RBC Foundation, Trottier Family Foundation, Youth Climate Corps BC and128 Collective.