What made you choose Arbtech?
I was looking to apply for a new job after completing a six-month field ecologist position at a different company. I was aiming for a permanent position where I was getting more involved with the planning and ecology processes as, while finding slow worms and bats was cool, I wanted something a bit more challenging. I had worked with Georgia Arnold in a previous job, and she gave a great review of working at Arbtech and recommended I apply.
Arbtech is a great match for me, as it suited my practical needs of working from home and not having to move away for a new job, as well as the desire to take the next step up in my career. What also sold it for me was the independence and flexibility you’re given – being able to take on your own work and find your own effective working day is a brilliant aspect of this company.
What do you love most about the company?
While I haven’t met everyone yet, the people working here really are a great bunch. I was enthusiastically welcomed and everyone has been so helpful and kind with my training. Everyone has let me follow them around on surveys and ask an annoying amount of questions. Even when I’m at home working, I know I can go to anyone with a question or problem, and they will be happy to help without judgement.
It might seem simple but that’s not a possibility at every workplace, and it’s something I’m thankful for here.
What do you do when you are not at Arbtech?
I have a range of hobbies that I dabble in.
I like to cook and try new recipes, and I go to the gym, where I like doing weightlifting and cycle classes. I enjoy gaming on my PC, playing world-building or shoot-’em-up games.
I also crochet and knit. I’m aiming to make a patchwork cardigan, but that will take some time and dedication to create. I also make cards out of little appliques that I crochet – it makes for a cute Christmas gift!
I try to keep a busy social life too, meeting up with friends for food and drinks or just going for walks.
What is your biggest tip to achieve the most in life?
Keep yourself open to new ideas and adventures. It worked for me in my professional and personal life. If I didn’t say yes to my previous job, it wouldn’t have led me into finding my position here. Or, if I didn’t say yes to going to a social event where I only knew one person, I wouldn’t have met my partner (which sounds silly, but confidence is always something I aim to improve on).
I’m very thankful for all of these things, so ultimately, keeping an open mind and pushing myself to do new things hasn’t turned out bad for me!
What is the best social you’ve been on at Arbtech?
The Christmas social was amazing – finally getting to meet a lot of Arbtechers that I’d only seen online.
We all travelled up to Chester and had a great evening, including some amazing food, fancy cocktails and bubbly, with some live music and dancing. Some of us then extended our trip to visit Chester Zoo the next day (even with our hangovers!)
Where do you want to travel to next?
Honestly, a lot of places!
I went on a cruise to the Greek islands last year and I definitely want to visit Greece again, but it would be great to try somewhere new. Maybe somewhere in Italy for the food? Or I’ve heard Budapest is great for a weekend getaway.
I think my next visit will be to Sweden to see some friends. I went to Sweden years ago for a university trip, but it would be great to go back to see the sights and enjoy the culture instead of completing coursework.
The ultimate trip in my opinion would be to Australia. I have friends who have gone out there to work and it looks amazing!
Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time?
Obviously, I would hope to have worked my way up to consultant ecologist, but other than that, I would like to find my speciality in the sector – maybe reptiles or small mammals.
Otherwise, I just want to gain knowledge and experience in everything, and Arbtech has put me in a great position to do so.
What is a goal you have for the future, in or out of work?
I think I’m currently evaluating my next goals as, for many years, my goal has been working towards getting a job like this, going through undergrad, a master’s, and attaining further experience to land a job at Arbtech.
One goal I do have is to get my bat licence. I’ve been working towards that by going along to supervision work, where I got to handle my first bat.
Outside of work, it would be really cool to find a venture involving knitting or crochet. I’ve also been saving to get a house with my partner, so that is the general goal we’re working towards. Other than that, we’re just out here having fun, going to new places, and trying new things!
Rhiannon joined Arbtech in October 2022.
