PEFC UK sponsors RFS Women in Forestry Network
The Women in Forestry Network provides opportunities for networking, mentoring and sharing experiences with peers. Listen to the first episode of Gone Foresting: An RFS Podcast, which explores the evolving role of women in forestry.
The inclusion of women in forestry and the breadth of skills and careers within the sector will be explored and celebrated at two dedicated events in 2025, organised by the Royal Forestry Society (RFS) and sponsored by PEFC UK.
The UK’s forestry sector is a rewarding and inspiring place to work but increasingly demands a diverse and multi-skilled workforce. Long considered a male-dominated field, the UK’s forestry sector has witnessed a steady rise in female participation over recent years, with more women playing pivotal roles in shaping its future. The on-going global climate crisis, biodiversity loss, and move to circularity and sustainable land management, is attracting a broader range of people to drive innovation and create positive change.
PEFC UK are sponsors of the RFS Women in Forestry Network and are collaborating closely with them to create a space for women to celebrate their skills and talents, encourage development and establish a network that welcomes, supports and connects people who have an interest in forestry.
Listen to the first episode of Gone Foresting: An RFS Podcast, which explores the role of women in forestry.
As part of RFS’s Early Career Foresters Network, the first Women in Forestry event of 2025 will take place on 3 April at Voltaire’s Wood, in the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The woodland is home to over 100 acres of semi-ancient natural woodland including beech, ash and oak, wild cherry and hazel. Due to the popularity of this event there will be a second event at a different woodland venue in September.
These events offer an opportunity to connect with peers, share insights, talk openly and explore challenges and barriers experienced within the industry. The career opportunities are as diverse as the people working in them and span from practical forestry skills, land management and conservation to ecology and scientific research in silviculture, pests and diseases. It is important to recognise that there is no single path into a forestry career and that a variety of skillsets are needed.
Becky Wilkinson, RFS Learning and Outreach Manager says: “We are thrilled to be able to work with PEFC UK to create this space for women at all stages of their career to come together for a day of learning and mutual support. We know how important it is for people starting out to hear from those with lived experience and to gain insights that will help them to have successful and fulfilling careers.”
Although there has been a clear rise in women taking on forestry roles over the past few years, there is not enough data available to get a clear picture. The RFS have always included women in forestry. Ever since the organisation first formed, nearly 145 years ago, the RFS has welcomed women as members. Before women had the right to vote, they could contribute to shaping the work of the Society. In 2025, 17% of the RFS membership are individual female members and another 8% are part of a joint membership.
Since launching the RFS’s flagship Forestry Roots programme seven years ago – a traineeship offering placements to those facing barriers to entering the forestry workforce – 38% of the placements have been women. Through these placements, the RFS are addressing the skills gap, equipping young people with the right skills through bespoke training and supporting more women to take their place within the sector.
As the UK works towards ambitious environmental goals surrounding net zero, boosting tree planting and improving the levels of homegrown commercial timber, the involvement of more women across the forestry and timber industries is crucial to making this happen. “PEFC UK is really excited about the opportunity to support the Women in Forestry events this year,” said Tracey Reeve, PEFC UK’s Operations Manager. “Our standards include clear commitments to gender equality, and we’re dedicated to supporting these initiatives across the board. Our goal is to attract a diverse new generation of forestry professionals by fostering an inclusive, positive work culture. We’re also working to reshape perceptions of the industry – forestry isn’t limited to traditional outdoor roles. It offers a broad spectrum of opportunities that provide both rewarding careers and a meaningful contribution to a thriving, sustainable forest environment.”
The Women in Forestry event for April 2025 is SOLD OUT, but there are places available for the September 2025 event. For more details contact: careers@rfs.org.uk.
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