By Charlotte Craig

Since getting my master’s degree in ecology and evolutionary biology, I’ve focused on roles where I can make the greatest impact — most recently as the Centre for Land Conservation’s Operations and Research Coordinator.

But the more time I spend in this sector, the more I appreciate that conservation work doesn’t just demand technical knowledge. It also requires the skill to bring people together, navigate competing priorities and turn big-picture goals into practical action.

That’s why CLC launched a five-day intensive Conservation Leadership Program with Western University’s Ivey Business School last year.

It fills an important gap. As many of the veterans guiding Canada’s conservation organizations prepare to retire, we need to be cultivating a new generation ready to take up the torch. But until now, there haven’t been leadership programs geared specifically for our sector.

After helping to develop the program, I participated in the second cohort in April. It was an opportunity to slow down, learn new strategies and focus on myself as a leader.

Ivey’s world-class professors really are the best. They helped us build skills in everything from strategic decision-making and negotiation to change leadership and collaboration — skills I now use every day.

It was also an opportunity to connect with colleagues from other organizations across the country, including several Indigenous participants.

Some of them were executive directors with extensive experience, who shared the lessons they’ve learned over decades. Others were earlier in their careers, like me.

Today, we continue learn from each other and share strategies on group chats and monthly calls, and I’ve heard from other participants just how empowering it’s been.

“Taking five days away from work isn’t easy, but it’s a smart investment — for yourself, your organization and the entire sector. And the earlier you create these growth opportunities in your career, the longer you’ll be able to build on them.”

Climate change and biodiversity loss have increased the scale, complexity and urgency of environmental issues. And in turn, that’s left many conservation professionals feeling overwhelmed and struggling to stay motivated. Thanks to the CLC-Ivey program, I feel better equipped to tackle those challenges and seize opportunities.