What made you choose Arbtech?
The company ethos and the positive comments from people working within the company prompted me to apply for a job at Arbtech.
Additionally, the possibility to further learn about ecology and work on cool surveys with cool animals is definitely an added bonus.
What do you love most about the company?
The availability and willingness of the team to help others and ensure that everyone is properly prepared to take on ambitious projects.
Notably, I find the support you get at Arbtech from other staff members unparalleled. They will go out of their way to make sure that you are doing well, even when they’re under a heavy workload.
What do you do when you are not at Arbtech?
When I am not working, I try to focus on sport and other hobbies of mine to keep a balanced life.
I am currently working on honing my photo editing skills by refining different wildlife photos I have taken throughout my travels and various research projects, while also trying to teach myself the bagpipes.
I also enjoy cooking when I have time.
What is your biggest tip to achieve the most in life?
Be passionate about what you do and have a strong work ethic, while also finding a balance to enjoy your hobbies.
What is the best social you’ve been on at Arbtech?
As I have only been working at the company for six months as an intern, I have not yet had many chances to go to Arbtech socials.
One was organised at Southampton Common earlier this summer, however, which was marvellous. It was fabulous to meet (in person) the core members of staff that I’d spent so much time working with and talking to virtually.
Not to mention that the whole set-up (rounders and football) was very well thought out, and the weather was tremendous!
Where do you want to travel to next?
My dream country to go and visit is most certainly Japan.
I am and have been fascinated by its history, culinary delights and culture since I was a child, not to mention that I am a big fan of anime and manga.
If I had the chance, I would spend a month going through all the different islands and soaking in as much of the atmosphere as possible and making sure I go to all the destinations I have on my list.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time?
In 5 years’ time, I see myself working in the science industry, either as an ecologist with Arbtech or in the wildlife documentary industry as a producer or assistant producer.
What is a goal you have for the future, in or out of work?
My goal is to – at some point – produce and narrate a wildlife documentary.
This has been a dream of mine since childhood, as I grew up watching all sorts of documentaries from different naturalists and presenters.
These all focused on wildlife and conservation, and I would absolutely love to create something similar at some point.
Somerled joined Arbtech in October 2025.
