Ben Lucas New Entrant 2026
Finding a Future in Forestry A Growing Interest in Forestry. Ben first became interested in forestry while studying at university,
Laurie – New Entrant 2026
A New Direction
For Laurie, the FTSUK New Entrants Programme offered an opportunity to take a first real step into the forestry sector. Having already applied for forestry jobs without success, Laurie recognised that gaining practical skills and industry-recognised qualifications could make the difference.
“I applied for the course as it was a way into the forestry industry. I had applied for other forestry jobs but had been unsuccessful. The course provided a broad insight into forestry and a number of training tickets that are required to work in the industry.”
From the outset, Laurie was keen to understand the range of opportunities within forestry and build the experience needed to secure employment. Having worked in horticulture as a gardener Laurie knew he enjoyed outdoor work but was not sure about all the options in forestry. His ambition was:
“Self-employed tree planter – work my way up from there.”
Learning from the Industry
One of the most valuable aspects of the programme was the combination of accredited training and the opportunity to meet people already working across the sector.
“I think a combination of getting certified training and meeting people working in the industry was most useful. Also seeing the industry from all aspects and how broad and diverse it has been.”
The programme provided an introduction to the many different career paths available within forestry, helping Laurie develop a clearer understanding of where he wanted to focus his future efforts.
“I feel very privileged and think the course has given myself a leg up into forestry.”
The qualifications gained during the programme quickly began to pay off. Shortly after completing the training, Laurie secured contract work with Soar Forestry, carrying out brushcutting and tree planting operations.
“From the tickets gained on the course I was able to get a new job with Soar Forestry. It is contract work and pays well, currently brush cutting and then planting.”
The role provided exactly the type of practical forestry experience Laurie had been hoping to gain and validated the importance of obtaining industry-recognised qualifications.
The opportunities did not stop there.
“Interestingly, since getting the job I have been offered a position of employment from a local estate needing a forestry worker. Talk about buses coming along at once!”
“This course has opened doors for me.”
What began as a search for a route into forestry quickly developed into multiple employment opportunities.
The combination of training, practical experience and recognised qualifications helped Laurie stand out to employers. According to his new employer, having the required tickets, outdoor work experience and fitting well within the team all contributed to securing the role.
Looking Forward
Laurie is continuing to build experience through forestry contracting work while developing his skills in planting and vegetation management. Having entered the industry through the FTSUK New Entrants Programme, he is now gaining valuable experience on the ground and exploring where a career in forestry might lead next.
Finding a Future in Forestry A Growing Interest in Forestry. Ben first became interested in forestry while studying at university,
From walking restoration sites and visiting one of Scotland’s leading forest nurseries to seeing timber transformed at a major sawmill,