Learning from the Best: AFM Interns Share Their Journey

By Jennifer Hunt (Content Writer)

This summer, AFM has 11 interns in our offices across the country. Our internship program has grown tremendously over the years, and as a result, we have a flourishing program that allows us to help shape a new generation of foresters. As such, we interviewed four of our interns and asked them about their experiences, providing Root to Canopy readers with a firsthand look at what it’s like being an AFM intern.

First, we asked our interns to describe the kind of silvicultural and forestry projects they work on, and each explained hands-on experiences that shape their day-to-day. Samuel Yake, an intern in Houghton, MI, has worked on setting boundary lines in stands, including property lines, riparian management zones (RMZs), and harvest boundaries. He has also observed log sorts and learned how to differentiate between different qualities of wood and how they are sorted. In Winnfield, LA, Cole Jackson has helped with post-operation inventory data collection, checked species composition for future herbicide applications, marked boundaries for timber sales, and monitored active logging jobs. Giving interns the opportunity to work side-by-side with their mentor gives them the confidence they need to head out to a site on their own and establish independence. Zachary Dubreuil, intern in Farmington, ME, said, “What I like the most about my mentor's style is that they show me something a couple of times and then they send me out on my own. As time goes on, I get my own assignments and really get to feel how the job actually feels on a day-to-day basis. It really makes me feel like I'm a part of the team because my input is being used in the bigger projects that are being done this summer.” Whether they’re cruising timber, assisting in SFI audit preparation, or marking streamside boundaries, our interns have a variety of experiences that not only help them learn but also contribute to the broader mission of AFM.

As interns are working alongside their mentors and colleagues in the field, it’s natural to learn lessons about not just forestry and land management but also about the many facets of being a forester. One aspect came up several times: communication. Jackson shared, “I have learned that forestry is all about people. Our connection with the people we work with is the basis of everything we do. Whether it's loggers, a timber buyer at a mill, or a private landowner, you'll talk to people every day. Those interactions and the connections you make play an important role in day-to-day business.” Yake echoed a similar sentiment. “AFM foresters communicate with each other, the loggers, and the markets/sawmills. That part of the job is so important because without communication, a lot of the infrastructure would fall apart–quickly!” James Madden, an intern who works in Waynesboro, TN, and Russellville, AL, noted, “Forestry is not only about trees but also about building good relationships with people.” We always strive to bring the best to our clients, and our interns received that message loud and clear. We’re honored to pass along the importance of communication to the next generation of foresters who will be responsible stewards of the land.

Finally, we asked our interns if they had any advice for incoming interns or foresters who are interested in working for AFM. Here’s what they had to say:

• Zachary Dubreuil: “Don't be afraid to ask questions because no question is a dumb question; it's all about learning and understanding. Also, don't be afraid to break out of your comfort zone.”
• James Madden: “AFM does an excellent job of setting you up for success by pairing you with very experienced foresters who are always ready to help. You also get an excellent real-life overview of the many career paths you have in forestry.”
• Cole Jackson: “Absorb as much as you can from the people you work with, learn from their experiences, and don't be afraid to ask questions.”
• Samuel Yake: “Say yes to absolutely everything. You are in such a unique position to learn here, and the people who teach you want you to ask questions. When they offer to show you something new, take that opportunity every single time. That will ensure that you learn and grow the most from this internship.”

As our internship program continues to expand, we take pride in our role in educating and encouraging future foresters and land managers. Our team is honored with the opportunity to share its expertise, giving interns access to managers with decades of experience. We hope that as we pay it forward, we will equip the next generation with tools and strategies that will enable them to do the same for the young interns and foresters who will one day work for them.

We’re excited to connect with our next class of interns as we visit career fairs this fall. We hope to meet you there, learn more about your interests and career goals, and explore how AFM can help you achieve them while building a rewarding career in forestry and land management.