Scottish Woodlands inspires next generation of foresters at Oban STEM event
Scottish Woodlands joined forces with Stemovators on 19th May to bring the world of forestry to life for hundreds of young people across Argyll and Bute.
The event, held in Oban, saw 109 pupils from 10 local schools gather to explore careers and industries connected to science, technology, engineering and maths. Bertie Welch and Sergej Tjallema, Assistant Forest Managers in Scottish Woodlands’ Lochgilphead office, represented the company at the event, running a hands-on drop-in stand that proved a hit with students of all ages.
Groups rotated between stands, tackling challenges set by participating companies. At the Scottish Woodlands stand, pupils were invited to try on real protective clothing and equipment (PPE) and take part in a dress-up game — matching the right kit to different forest activities, from tree planting to tree surgery.
Sergej Tjallema said: “It was a fantastic day and brilliant to see so much enthusiasm from the young people we met. Forestry offers incredible careers — from hands-on work in the forest to planning, conservation and technology — and events like this are a great way to show pupils what’s possible. We hope we’ve inspired a few future foresters!”
Stemovators organise STEM events for schools across Scotland, connecting young people with employers and giving them a taste of real-world industries.
