Program
Explore What’s
Happening at #2026CIF
Students & Graduates
Explore opportunities designed to support your transition into the forestry profession, from hands-on workshops and career guidance to networking, mentorship, and interactive events. Whether you are just starting out or preparing for your next step, #2026CIF offers practical tools, real-world insights, and meaningful connections to help you grow.
Check out more information about the Student Quiz Bowl and Poster Symposium!
Explore our Student Invitation Package to discover how #2026CIF supports and enhances student professional development!
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Mentorship Program
Connect with experienced forest professionals to gain practical insights, ask questions, and build meaningful connections. Designed for students and early-career professionals, this program helps you navigate career paths and get more out of your conference experience. It offers a welcoming, low-pressure environment to ask questions, gain practical insights, and build professional connections. Whether you are exploring career paths, looking to expand your network, or seeking guidance from those working across the forest and conservation sector, the program provides a valuable opportunity to learn, connect, and feel more engaged throughout the conference.
Workshops for Students & Graduates
Practical sessions to help you build job-ready skills, explore career paths, and connect with industry professionals.
After general registration, delegates will be contacted via email regarding workshop selection.
Workshops have limited capacity and will be reserved on a first-come, first-served basis. You may attend more than one workshop; however, some workshops overlap with other workshops, Conference events, or sessions. Please review the Conference schedule here.
Workshop 6 – Plan Your Forestry Career: Guidance from Professionals Across the Industry
September 29, 2026 | 2:00 pm – 3:15 pm (MT) | Salon 4
Audience: Students, Recent Graduates,
Young Professionals
Format: 75 minutes, interactive
Facilitator:
- Al Benson, RPF, Senior Area Forester, Alberta Forestry and Parks, Forestry Division
- Marissa Green, RPF, Planning Superintendent, Mercer Peace River, Mercer International
Speakers:
- Lorne Carson, RPF, Carson Integrated
- Amanda Schoonmaker, NAIT Centre for Boreal Research
Navigating career pathways in forestry can be overwhelming for students and early-career professionals, as the field spans consulting, industry, and government, each with different requirements and opportunities. This workshop brings together experienced professionals to share their career journeys, insights on education and valuable experience, and what employers look for in junior candidates. Participants will have time to ask questions about entry-level roles, career progression, and skill development, helping them better understand their options and take informed steps toward their goals.