Emily Herd: Cultivating Forestry Expertise and Leadership with WIDE Trust Support
Emily Herd is a prime example of how passion and hard work can shape a rewarding future in forestry. Through her studies, hands-on experiences, and leadership roles, Emily is building an impressive foundation for a career in the forestry industry. With the support of the WIDE Trust, she has been able to delve deeper into her studies, gain invaluable practical experience, and contribute to the forestry community through leadership and volunteer work.
Successful Academic Year
Last semester, Emily explored various aspects of forestry through courses such as SOIL 203 – Soil Fertility, FORE224 – Biometry 1b, FORE215 – Forest Economics, and FORE219 – Introduction to Silviculture. These courses provided her with a comprehensive understanding of silviculture, trade, markets, forest modeling, and soil science.
“I particularly enjoyed the Forest Economics course and was excited to learn more about the forest industry's role in the New Zealand economy,” Emily shared.
A standout moment in her academic journey was a visit to John Wardle’s Woodside Forest during her silviculture course. This hands-on experience offered Emily valuable insights into innovative approaches to harvesting radiata pine and black beech.
Connecting at the Wahine in Forestry Conference
Emily had the privilege of attending the Wahine in Forestry Conference in Hanmer Springs for the second consecutive year. Reflecting on the event, she expressed gratitude for the opportunity to meet and connect with inspiring women who are shaping the forestry industry.
Leadership and Volunteering
The WIDE Trust’s financial support has enabled Emily to dedicate time to leadership and volunteer work. As the First-Year Engagement Coordinator for the Student Volunteer Army (SVA), she traveled throughout Canterbury and the South Island, contributing to various community projects.
Looking ahead, Emily is excited to take on several leadership roles, including:
Vice-President of the Student Volunteer Army
Vice-President of the Forestry Society
Sponsorship Officer for the University of Canterbury Girls Outdoors Club
Gaining Industry Experience
Emily is spending her summer gaining practical forestry experience in Hawkes Bay with Scott Pearson Forestry Services. Her responsibilities include pre-prune and pre-harvest plotting, roles that have deepened her appreciation for the hard work that underpins the forestry industry. “I have thus far found the work very challenging, but it has strengthened my appreciation for the hard work that builds the backbone of our industry,” she said.
Gratitude to WIDE Trust
Emily is immensely thankful for the WIDE Trust’s support, which has allowed her to focus on her studies, pursue leadership opportunities, and gain valuable industry experience.
The WIDE Trust is proud to support students like Emily, who are committed to advancing New Zealand’s forestry and wood industry sectors while contributing to their communities and fostering industry growth.