Exploring Forestry Careers in the Highlands

From walking restoration sites and visiting one of Scotland’s leading forest nurseries to seeing timber transformed at a major sawmill, the 2025 Forestry Taster Event in Elgin gave service leavers a unique opportunity to experience the forestry sector first hand. Led by Kate Palmer and Richard Hunter of Confor, the three-day programme brought together employers, forestry professionals and those considering their next career move. 

Hosted across a variety of locations including Newton Nursery, Forestry and Land Scotland sites, Seafield Estate and James Jones’ Mosstodloch Sawmill, participants gained insight into the diverse range of roles that support modern forestry. From forest restoration and deer management to harvesting, estate management, timber haulage and emerging technologies such as drones, the event showcased the scale and variety of opportunities available within the sector. 

For FTSUK, the event was an excellent opportunity to engage directly with both industry and service leavers, helping us better understand the skills required for successful transition into forestry. These conversations and observations are invaluable in identifying training needs, highlighting potential skills gaps and helping to shape clear and achievable routes from military service into forestry careers.