8 March 2022
Ignore the stereotype and don’t give up, just like our field ranger, Amy. Read her journey to becoming a ranger for the Lake District and how you can do the same.
My name is Amy and I am a field ranger based in the Northern area of the Lake District. As a team, we are responsible for looking after the rights of way network. The job is very diverse and a large proportion is physically demanding. The work involves the installation of bridges, gates, stiles as well as some chainsaw and machinery work. No two days are the same, there is always something new to learn or a new problem to solve out in the field. I feel very lucky to get to spend my working days out in our beautiful national park!
Being a woman in this industry has had its challenges for me in the past as it is typically male dominated. I began my journey into this career studying a Countryside Management Diploma, the course was a great overview of everything and a good place to start. I wanted to become a ranger and work in a practical role and the course gave me a great foundation to build on. I lacked confidence in the beginning of this journey as I was the only female on my course at the time and felt at a disadvantage. I had numerous voluntary positions to gain experience and I funded myself to get some practical tickets. This was all valuable for the CV as many ranger roles require these. I worked with some great people who took the time to teach me skills that I now have for life. Gaining my confidence and finding my own feet in the industry has taken time but I am now in a comfortable position and all of the hard work was absolutely worth it.
Encouraging women into roles similar to my own is something I am extremely passionate about. I never had that female role model to look to when I was undergoing my training during my college years and if having my face out there helps young women to see that this is a route that is possible then I am happy to do that! I am currently looking at developing some opportunities for young women within my role at the moment, possibly running some experience/taster days to learn drystone walling and fencing skills and dovetailing this with the John Muir Award. I am very grateful to work with such a supportive team within a great organisation who have shown me that my work is valued.
I would like to say to any women looking to get into this area of work to gain as much practical experience as possible through volunteering opportunities, learn as many skills as you can, push through any self-doubt and grab the bull by the horns! Most importantly, know that you absolutely can do this and I encourage you to have the confidence to get out there and be the role models we need in the industry.
Find out more about Lake District rangers.
Staff Blogger
