Nurturing Talent in New Zealand's Forestry and Wood Industry - ForestTECH 2023
ForestTECH 2023 was a resounding success, drawing over 300 delegates from diverse backgrounds within the forestry and wood industry. This annual event has become a beacon for showcasing the latest technological advancements and fostering collaboration among professionals globally. Central to its success is the dedication of organisations like the WIDE Trust, which actively supports the event and the broader development and education within the industry.
The ForestTECH 2023 series continued to attract resource managers, inventory foresters, data capture specialists, mapping and GIS experts, as well as professionals involved in forest establishment and silviculture. Notably, the event has evolved to address the convergence of new data collection technologies for forest estate reporting and precision forestry innovations in operational planning.
A notable aspect of ForestTECH 2023 was the diverse participation, with 140 delegates attending in Rotorua and an additional 30 virtual international delegates from countries such as Australia, Chile, Indonesia, Japan, USA, Canada, and more. This inclusivity facilitated a global exchange of ideas and solutions, contributing to the event's rich tapestry of insights.
This year, ForestTECH took a significant step in fostering the next generation of talent by incorporating a student competition. Sponsored by Tools for Foresters (Scion), the Forest Industry Engineering Association, and Forest Growers Research, the competition encouraged students from the University of Canterbury and Toi Ohomai to delve into research projects focused on using UAVs for tree survival surveys.
The students presented their findings to an industry panel before ForestTECH 2023, showcasing innovative approaches to data capture methodology. The best project was awarded a DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise drone, valued at NZ$7,000, donated by Ferntech, emphasising the industry's commitment to nurturing and recognizing young talent.
The WIDE trust sponsored five complimentary registrations for young students and recent graduates, ensuring their active participation in the event. WIDE Trust's contribution was prominently acknowledged through its logo featured in promotional materials, electronic promotions, the event website, and the conference guidebook.
WIDE Trust's impact extended beyond the event itself. In the closing ceremony, the trust was recognised for its ongoing support of younger students and recent graduates throughout the year. The commitment to advancing careers in the forestry and wood industry was underscored, emphasising the lasting influence of WIDE Trust's support.
As we reflect on ForestTECH 2023, it becomes evident that the event continues to be a catalyst for innovation and collaboration within the forestry and wood industry. The inclusive participation, student engagement, and industry support, particularly from organisations like the WIDE Trust, contribute to the sector's ongoing development. ForestTECH serves not only as a platform for showcasing technological advancements but also as a nurturing ground for the future leaders and innovators in New Zealand's forestry and wood industry.