In the forest of Canadian academic units, UNB's faculty of forestry and environmental management (ForEM) would be among the "old growth" trees, with over a hundred rings to show its age. While the program has grown deep roots since its first graduating class in 1910, it is far from unchanging, and it continues growing out in new directions, shifting, adapting and thriving in an ever-changing landscape.
As the climate crisis intensifies and industries evolve, the faculty is at the forefront of a sector undergoing rapid transformation. With cutting-edge technology, a growing demand for skilled professionals and a commitment to sustainability, ForEM grads are shaping the future of forestry.
A growing sector in New Brunswick
Over the next decade, New Brunswick's forestry sector is anticipating a significant wave of job openings as many as 3,200 as seasoned professionals retire and transition out of the workforce. Many of these roles will require post-secondary education, particularly in technical and leadership positions. In addition to direct employment, the sector is closely linked to a range of related industries, such as human resources, logistics and off-site construction, creating further opportunities for skilled workers across the province.
Both provincially and nationally, employment in the sector is projected to grow significantly each year, driven by innovation, sustainability and the evolving bioeconomy. ForEM stands out as a solution to this growth, offering students not only competitive wages but also meaningful, hands-on experience in a field that's actively solving some of the biggest problems facing our world.
"Our graduates are entering a workforce that's hungry for their skills," said Dr. Michelle Gray, ForEM dean and associate professor. "We're seeing unprecedented demand for professionals who understand both the science and the technology driving modern forestry, with the ability to make data-driven decisions."
Pioneering innovation in forestry education
UNB is at the forefront of modernizing forestry education. With a recent multi-million-dollar investment to advance digital forestry, ForEM is integrating artificial intelligence, drone technology and digital mapping into its curriculum. These tools are not just enhancing learning they're redefining what it means to work in the industry.
"Today's forestry professionals are just as likely to be working with data in a lab or city office as they are in the woods," said Gray. "We're preparing students to thrive in diverse environments, using technology to manage natural resources more efficiently and sustainably."
ForEM students explore emerging fields, including:
- Digital forestry: Using AI and remote sensing to monitor forest health and growth.
- Forest bioeconomy: Innovations such as mass timber and off-site construction are creating new markets and sustainable building solutions.
- Forest fire management: Leveraging predictive modelling and drone surveillance to mitigate risk.
- Environmental resilience: Tackling climate change through sustainable land use and conservation strategies.
These advancements make ForEM an ideal destination for students who love the outdoors but also want to engage with cutting-edge technology and real-world problems. It's a place where environmental stewardship meets innovation, and where students are empowered to make a tangible impact.
Student experience: support, flexibility and leadership
ForEM students benefit from generous financial support and access to competitive summer employment, often earning wages while gaining valuable industry experience. The faculty's commitment to interdisciplinary learning and leadership development ensures graduates are well-equipped to manage natural resources and drive sustainability across sectors.
And the program is only growing, expanding by creating flexible entry points for college transfer students and professionals looking to advance their careers. Online learning options are also on the horizon, making forestry education even more accessible.
"We're building pathways for learners at every stage," said Gray. "Whether you're coming straight from high school or pivoting mid-career, there's a place for you here. We want to make forestry education more accessible and adaptable to the needs of today's learners."
Upcoming open house and Woodsmen Competition
For those curious about what an education in forestry might look like, ForEM is hosting an open house and the annual Woodsmen Competition on Oct .18. The open house event will take place at the Richard J. CURRIE CENTER from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m, with the Woodsmen Competition happening just up the hill below the BMO Field parking lot on the Fredericton campus from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Visitors can learn more about the academic programs, tour facilities, meet faculty and students, and witness the skill and camaraderie that define the forestry community.
It's a chance to see first-hand how UNB is transforming forestry education and why ForEM is a launchpad for students looking to shape the future of our planet.
