What made you choose Arbtech?
When starting my career as an ecologist, I came across Arbtech on several occasions.
I was dubious of how great it looked, and as I was only just starting out in my career, I wasn’t confident enough in my abilities to give it a go.
When a friend from a previous role was offered a position with Arbtech, however, I asked her if it was really as good as it sounds, to which she replied: “Come and find out”.
Having great trust in my friend, I applied for an internship position and soon after was hired as a graduate.
What do you love most about the company?
In my previous job, I was driving all over the country and often visiting five or six sites in a single day to undertake menial tasks. At Arbtech, I’m given autonomy over my workload and decide which projects I want to work on, opening up an opportunity to focus more on the aspects of the job I love.
I’ve only been with Arbtech for a few short months so far, but in this time, I’ve learned a great deal, visited lesser horseshoe roosts, seen grey long-eared bats, and have been invited to attend bottle trapping with great crested newts – all valuable experiences in my career.
What do you not do when you are not in Arbtech?
I really enjoy playing video games, such as Baldur’s Gate 3, Fallout and Sea of Thieves.
On weekends, I often play Dungeons & Dragons and go for long walks in local nature reserves with my husband.
I spend a lot of time with my three guinea pigs, teaching them tricks and showing them how to misbehave, and in my downtime, I listen to music and paint along with Bob Ross.
What is your biggest tip to achieve the most in life?
Believe in yourself and be yourself.
I believe that if you are completely honest with yourself and the people around you, you will achieve everything you want to accomplish.
Ask questions, raise opinions, share thoughts and don’t hesitate.
What is the best social you’ve been on at Arbtech?
I’ve only been with the company for a couple of months, so I haven’t yet been able to attend a social.
I did, however, spend two days in Oxford being trained by some of the amazing and knowledgeable staff at Arbtech. Everyone was incredibly helpful, and it was a pleasure to attend.
I have heard nothing but great things about the Arbtech Christmas parties too and cannot wait to get involved in this year’s festivities!
Where do you want to travel next?
I love to travel and have a very long list of places I would like to go to.
A priority for me is to visit the Amazon rainforest. The serenity and calming environment with the diverse climate and wildlife is extraordinary.
On the complete opposite end of the scale, I would love to visit Svalbard in Norway to witness the northern lights and see one of the largest colonies of polar bears.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
In five years’ time, I hope to still be at Arbtech, steadily progressing to becoming a senior ecologist with a couple of licences under my belt.
My husband and I are currently saving for our first home, so we’re always talking about all the pets we want to adopt and how spoiled they will be.
What is a goal you have for the future?
Thinking long-term, my husband and I have always dreamt of owning a sailboat and sailing around the world.
We are currently a long way off this goal but think it could be the perfect way to retire.
Abby joined Arbtech in May 2024.
