In Conversation with Geospatial Consultant, Hannah Smith

A growing interest in careers in environmentalism and sustainability is encouraging for us here at Caledonian Climate, as we seek to stem the tide on climate change  

Someone who knows first-hand how a passion for the outdoors, conservation and delivering positive change can influence a career is our Geospatial Consultant, Hannah Smith.   

We caught up with Hannah to reflect on her career journey so far and ask her advice for establishing yourself in an industry that’s becoming increasingly competitive to break into. 

 

What inspired you to undertake a degree in Environmental Management? 

“Thanks to an upbringing in the Scottish Highlands, I have spent my whole life surrounded by, and enjoying nature. This is where my passion for all things environment and geography began.   

Growing up, it became difficult to ignore growing concerns around climate change. I began to notice how active the Department for Conservation was and, by following their work, I gained a greater understanding of the variety of jobs available within the industry, cementing my ambition to pursue a career in environmentalism.”  

 

What led you to consider a position with Caledonian Climate? 

“I have always been inspired by organisations who are vocal about what they do and how their efforts address climate change.  

“Throughout my degree in Environmental Management I became more aware of peatland restoration and the potential it has for delivering large-scale environmental impact. I researched organisations specialising in this and Caledonian Climate stood out. I was impressed by their commitment and dynamic approach to bringing peatland restoration to the forefront of tackling climate change and promoting biodiversity in Scotland.  

“When the MD, Freddie Ingleby, invited individuals with an interest in peatland restoration to get in touch I jumped at the opportunity… and the rest is history!”  

 

Describe your role as a Geospatial Consultant with Caledonian Climate.  

“A key part of my role is using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to produce data-driven maps for our clients. This is relevant for every stage of the peatland restoration process. For example, we produce opportunity mapping during initial scoping of sites for potential restoration. Then, once a project progresses, we collect primary and secondary data via both surveying and desk-based research to inform us of factors such as peat depth and historical assets present on the site. This information is used to produce maps, enabling us to visualise and inform stakeholders on all aspects impacting peatland restoration at that specific site. I can be working across multiple clients at the one time, supporting each of them at different stages of the process.” 

 

What aspects of your job do you like the most?   

“It is very rewarding to be in a role where the maps I present collate the results of the hard work of everyone across our team.  At Caledonian Climate, we are a tight-knit team that thrives on collaborating with one another.  And I must say, being a lover of the great outdoors, I relish the opportunity to join in with data collection out on site every now-and-then.”   

 

What is your favourite project you have worked on to date? 

“We recently worked on a project up in Glen Affric in the Central Scottish Highlands. I thoroughly enjoyed taking on a leadership role for this project, gaining insights in aspects of our peatland restoration work that I wouldn’t normally see in my everyday role. It has given me the confidence to support future clients on project areas that are not within my primary expertise.” 

 

What would you say to someone who wants to pursue a career in environmentalism and peatland restoration?  

“From my experience, the most valuable thing you can do during your job search is look out for organisations that inspire you and be prepared to reach out. Skills in our industry are constantly evolving and organisations require talented people to work towards a common goal of combatting climate change. Your ‘ideal role’ may not even exist yet, that doesn’t mean an organisation won’t create it for the right person!”  

 

What do you get up to when you’re not working on peatland?  

“Probably of no shock to anyone… as a lover of the outdoors you can find me camping, mountain biking, or simply finding some peace on the hills in the highlands. You’ll find that goes for most of us here at Caledonian Climate!”  

 

Learn more about the exceptional professionals working at Caledonian Climate here.