Earlier this month, Shelby-Jay Rogers and Abigail Hodgkinson attended their first professional conference event, marking a significant step in their careers. Hosted by the Institute of Fisheries Management (IFM), the Early Careers Workshop provided an invaluable opportunity to connect with fellow professionals from diverse backgrounds and share their collective passion for all things fisheries-related.
Representing RSK Biocensus, Shelby-Jay and Abigail engaged with industry leaders and peers, gaining insight into the many pathways within the fisheries sector. The event featured a series of expert talks from notable figures in the field, including Ian Wellby, Jim Lyons (FLS CEnv FIFM MSc BSc), and Andy Don. Topics ranged from professional registration with the IFM and Continued Professional Development (CPD) to the application of hydroacoustic methods for fisheries and the wide range of roles available within the sector.
These presentations offered a deeper understanding of what the IFM stands for and highlighted the diversity of opportunities in what many might consider a niche career. For Shelby-Jay and Abigail, the event was both eye-opening and inspiring, giving them much to reflect on, and a few more items to add to their growing to-do lists.
Reflecting on her experience, Shelby-Jay shared, “The Early Careers Workshop was informative and insightful, and it was fascinating to hear about the variety of career paths a handful of individuals have taken, all leading us to the same room.”
Both Shelby-Jay and Abigail are excited to attend future events.
A special thank you to Iain Turner and Paul Coulson FIFM, as well as the entire team of organisers and speakers, for making the event such a valuable experience. Their hard work and dedication ensured the workshop was both informative and enjoyable for all attendees.