About Us
A skilled forestry workforce
Sustainable, diverse and growing
The Forestry Sector Council is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to developing a skilled and professional workforce for the forestry industry in Nova Scotia. We collaborate with partners to identify and solve labour challenges, advance innovation in human resources, and build capacity in our sector.
We are one of 14 provincial sector councils and a member of the Association of Industry Sector Councils.
Our strategic priorities:
Human Resources Planning
Attraction and Retention
Skill Development & Training
Engagement & Partnerships
Internal Capacity
Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, Reconciliation, & Accessibility (EDIRA)
The Forestry Sector Council is committed to creating an environment where people feel valued for their differences – because of them, not in spite of them.
- We believe in building diverse and inclusive forestry workforces and engaging leaders in our industry who have a variety of differences, backgrounds, skills, and views. The more diverse and inclusive we are, the better we will be.
- We promote safety, harmony, equity, inclusion, and teamwork.
- We commit to cultivating a workforce like our forests – sustainable, diverse, and growing.
Everyone is welcome to enjoy a purposeful and rewarding career in forestry!
VISION
Cultivating a workforce like our forests – sustainable, diverse and growing.
MISSION
Through attraction and retention, training, and building on human resource capacity, we will create the workforce of the future for Nova Scotia’s forestry sector.
VALUES
Collaboration
Sustainability
Diversity
2024-25 Board of Directors
Andrew Fedora
CHAIR
Andrew Fedora
BOARD CHAIR
Andrew Fedora is currently employed with the Nova Scotia Community College’s Centre of Forest Innovation. Over the last 25 years, he has worked for private industry, non-profit and government organizations, all within the forestry sector. His experience includes serving on boards such as the Maritime College of Forest Technology, Forest Nova Scotia, the Canadian Federation of Woodlot Owners, and the East Coast Music Association.
Andrew has a unique combined expertise in leadership, outreach, education, communications & applied forestry. He lives in Judique with his wife, their two young boys, and a variety of animals on their 37-acre homestead.
“If I were to choose a superpower, I suppose it might be teleportation. It would reduce my carbon footprint and save me a fortune on tires and auto insurance. It would also let me go directly from bed to my coffee maker in the morning.”
Cassie Turple
VICE CHAIR
Cassie Turple
BOARD VICE CHAIR
Cassie Turple is a third-generation sawmiller from Enfield, Nova Scotia. She is an Executive Member and Past President of the Wood Product Manufacturers Association of Nova Scotia (WPMAS). Cassie is also a Past President of Forest Nova Scotia and a Board Member of the Canadian Woodlands Forum. Her family’s sawmill, Ledwidge Lumber, produces over 70 million fbm stud lumber annually, employing over 90 people and exporting half to the U.S., and the rest currently stay in Atlantic Canada.
Cassie is the Communications Coordinator for Ledwidge Lumber managing employees, community, and government relations with a Bachelor of Public Relations Degree from Mount Saint Vincent University. Cassie is happily married with two children and spends as much time as possible outdoors with her family.
“Superpower – definitely the ability to fly.”
Jocelyn Taylor Archibald
SECRETARY TREASURER
Jocelyn Taylor Archibald
BOARD SECRETARY TREASURER
Jocelyn has been employed with Taylor Lumber Company Limited for over 15 years in various roles (from a woods crew to management). Some of the unique values she brings to the board table are her in-depth knowledge of the forest industry, her integrity, and professionalism, as well as her ability to work as a team player. Highlights of her career are tenures on various boards, including the Maritime Lumber Bureau where she had the privilege of being the first female Director and Chair, Forest Nova Scotia, and now the Forestry Sector Council.
Jocelyn holds a Bachelor of Commerce with a Major in Finance from Dalhousie University, as well as various industry-related certifications, including training and licenses as a Scaler, a Watercourse Alteration and Bridge Installer, and workplace safety programs.
“If I could possess one superpower it would be super speed, so I could complete my tasks faster, allowing me to enjoy more time with my family.”
Adam Scott
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBER
Adam Scott
BOARD EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBER
Adam is currently a Project Manager with Scott and Stewart Forestry Consultants Ltd. Scott and Stewart are one of Atlantic Canada’s largest non-industrial management firms, representing 50+ full-time employees and up to 200 seasonal workers across the forest sector. He has 15 years of experience as a silviculture worker in planting, manual weeding, and pre-commercial thinning/spacing. and he has supervised silviculture, harvesting, and land crews for 7 years.
Adam acquired a Bachelor of Science in Human Kinetics and Heath Sciences from St. Francis Xavier University in 2010 and holds a Bachelor of Science in Medical Radiation Sciences and an Advanced Diploma in Medical Radiation Therapy from the University of Toronto.
Unique values that Adam brings to the table are on-the-ground experience in forest management, labour in all forestry activities from seed acquisition to final felling for forest products, and many stops in between. He has valuable insight into the labour force for a variety of forest workers.
“My superpower would be the ability to slow or stop time. On those days that seem to disappear before you even get started, it would be nice to slow things down for a bit. Also, who would not like the feeling of a longer weekend.”
Heidi MacInnis
DIRECTOR
Heidi MacInnis
BOARD DIRECTOR
Heidi has been employed with Port Hawkesbury Paper in the capacity of Human Resources Manager since 2012. Prior to that (2010-2012) she worked in the NewPage HR team as Organization Development Leader. Before returning ‘home’ to Cape Breton in 2010, she spent 13 years in Halifax working in various management roles within the Brewing Industry.
After high school, she attended NS Agricultural College and completed a Chemical Laboratory Diploma. While working full-time, she returned to school at St. Mary’s University completing a Chemistry Degree. Heidi holds an HR designation and is an active member of the Chartered Professionals in Human Resources of Nova Scotia (CPHRNS).
“I would like to possess the ability to heal others.”
Elizabeth Jessome
DIRECTOR
Elizabeth Jessome
BOARD DIRECTOR
Elizabeth holds a Bachelor of Arts in philosophy and biology from Cape Breton University and is currently a graduate student at Dalhousie’s School for Resource and Environmental Studies, working in the space where sustainable community energy meets forestry. Building a deep understanding of the relationships between forest ecology and the human place within it has guided her career path and the various projects she volunteers on. Elizabeth spent years conducting field research in source watershed forests and streams with ACAP Cape Breton and CBRM Water Utility.
These days, she hands her professional hat at the Unama’ki Institute of Natural Resources as the Mi’kmaq Forestry Initiative Project Manager where she is learning about traditional ways of conservation and ecosystem protection. Elizabeth was one of the founding members of the Bras d’Or Lakes Biosphere Reserve Association’s Forest Watch pilot which connected local school children with forest ecosystems and concepts of interconnectivity and stewardship of the watershed.
“If she could possess one superpower, she would have the ability to photosynthesize like the trees and snack all day long.”
Jason Casey
DIRECTOR
Jason Casey
BOARD DIRECTOR
Living with his wife, son, and dog Sam in Elmsdale, Nova Scotia, Jason is a forestry professional, working in the industry for the past 20+ years. Passionate about all things relating to forest management, he specialized in silviculture systems early on working for Elmsdale Lumber Company Ltd., and administered programs for various organizations including private woodland owners.
Jason currently holds the title of Forest Resource Manager at Elmsdale Lumber Company Ltd. while continuing to explore and evolve harvesting and silviculture systems in an ever-changing industry. He also provides consulting support for different forestry initiatives in the province while continuing his work with private woodland owners. He currently sits on the executive committee for the Canadian Woodlands Forum, as well as the Nova Scotia Forest Technicians Association. Jason brings well-rounded industry experience to the table with an open-minded progressive approach to finding solutions. He has always been an advocate for forestry and the possibilities that can be achieved through proper woodlot management.
In his spare time, Jason enjoys outdoor activities including camping with his family.
“If I could choose a superpower, I am not sure I would want the attention, so I’d likely pick something discreet and simple, like the ability to never forget another password.”
Dennis Bedford
DIRECTOR
Dennis Bedford
BOARD DIRECTOR
Dennis is the Owner Operator of D. Bedford Forestry Services Inc. based along the South Shore of Nova Scotia. He was born in Nova Scotia, raised in Ontario and moved to Alberta where he became a scuba instructor. He traveled extensively before landing back in Northern Ontario where he started his career in Forestry as a tree planter. From tree planter to crew boss to PCT/brush-saw operator and back to Nova Scotia where he was part owner of a successful Silviculture company for 25 years.
In 2023 Dennis launched D. Bedford Forestry Services Inc. with the intention of finding and training the next generation of Silviculture workers and to be a part of the initiative to help develop successful strategies for standardization and elevate the importance of Silviculture work in the Province.
Dennis is a natural leader and excels in helping others find their own strengths through teaching and mentoring. He’s coached hockey, soccer, baseball and snowboarding to youth and instructed scuba diving for many years, making his mentorship and training program with D. Beford Forestry Services Inc. a natural fit.
He believes in the changes that he sees that need to happen in the industry and is off and running at achieving those goals. His love for the forests of Nova Scotia and how they are intended to be managed is the driving force behind his vision.
For fun, Dennis enjoys time with his teenage son, family and friends. He always enjoys the thrill of trying new things, which most recently is climbing trees. He’s skilled at most things and master of none. He enjoys gardening and the art of slow that goes with that such as seed starting and preserving. Construction for a hobby greenhouse has started on his property where he hopes to grow fresh food year-round. He loves to play hockey, camp, ride his motorbike, enjoy life on 2 lakes and rarely sleeps.
If he could have a superpower, it would be to turn each day into 2 to be able to spend more time with his family and to do more of the things he loves with a little extra time to relax.
Team
Heather Boyd
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Heather Boyd
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
A dynamic, versatile, and proactive leader, Heather is dedicated to building and sustaining strong relationships to get things done.
As the Executive Director of the Forestry Sector Council, she is leading the organization through a phase of revitalization to meet industry needs for skilled labour. The organization was launched during the pandemic, presenting a challenge for industry engagement. That opportunity allowed time for the development of healthy board governance and the formation of a strong strategic plan. Heather’s attention is now fixed on spearheading the delivery of resources and supports that fortify a diverse workforce supplied to lucrative businesses, developing a green and inclusive economy.
Previously, Heather worked with the Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture in its AgSector Program launch. Earlier, she grew through various roles with Dairy Farmers of Nova Scotia transitioning from communications and finance to logistics and data analysis. One of her proudest accomplishments while working with DFNS was the implementation of the province’s first bulk milk supply chain electronic data collection system.
Heather is a lifelong learner and has pursued professional development through St. Mary’s University. She was a Municipal Candidate for County Council and has served on various boards and committees. Currently Heather is Vice Chair on the Maritime College of Forest Technology Board of Governors, poised to be the first-ever female Chair.
Born and raised in Truro, Heather lived in rural western Colchester County for twenty-five years on a woodlot and hobby farm and now calls Truro Heights home. She is a devoted mother and an avid community volunteer who stays active. Heather enjoys dance, squash, kayaking, skiing, and music.
“If I had a superpower, I would have a magic wand to do lots of wonderful things!”
Zoe Croke
LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT LEAD
Zoe Croke
TRAINING COORDINATOR
Zoe is our dedicated and creative Training Coordinator, focused on developing and communicating training programs that upskill both new and existing employees in the forestry sector. In collaboration with our internal team, external training providers, partner organizations, industry stakeholders, and employers, she ensures that training initiatives meet industry needs and best practices.
In addition to her training responsibilities, Zoe is involved in outreach efforts to communicate the existing opportunities and career paths within the sector, from seed to stump. By highlighting the diverse roles available, she aims to foster connections between potential workers and the industry, increasing interest in forestry careers and ensuring the sustainable development of a skilled workforce.
Beyond her role, Zoe is a lifelong learner with a Bachelor of Business Administration from Acadia University, focused on Employment Relations. She has a diverse background, including her most recent experience as a Learning and Development Lead in the Information Technology sector, where she was responsible for employee onboarding, training content curation, website management, and webinar facilitation. She also served as a Logistics Coordinator on a pilot project in Nova Scotia’s non-profit sector, supporting professional skill development. Previously recognized for her creative problem-solving approach to business challenges, Zoe is passionate about innovation and employee engagement.
Rooted in the Annapolis Valley, where she grew up and still resides, Zoe enjoys outdoor adventures of all types—from beach outings and gardening to sightseeing and exercising her big goofy dog. Thrill-seeking activities like skydiving, amusement parks and water sports are also on her agenda (less frequently these days); nothing is off the table as long as there’s a thrill or a scenic view involved.
“If I could have any superpower, it would be time bending—slowing down moments to savour more time with my daughter while she’s tiny (she’s growing at hyper speed!), making more time for hobbies, and spending more time with loved ones.“
Spencer Coulstring
STRATEGIC INITIATIVES LEAD
Spencer Coulstring
CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT SPECIALIST & FORESTRY LIAISON
Spencer is a dedicated team player committed to fostering an inclusive and positive culture within the forest sector.
As a new addition to the Forestry Sector Council, she brings energy and a fresh perspective to her role as one of three Continuous Improvement Specialists. In this pivotal position, she plays a key part in shaping the organization’s legacy, primarily supporting the Program for Industry Efficiency.
The other half of her time is dedicated to her role as Forestry Liaison, where she hopes to continue to build and strengthen the relationships she’s cultivated during her five years in Nova Scotia’s forest sector.
Spencer holds a Bachelor of Science and has gained diverse experience in fisheries, environmental technology, and watershed restoration. With seven years in the forestry sector, she began her career in British Columbia before returning to her home in Nova Scotia.
She is excited about the opportunity to drive meaningful change in the sector she’s devoted her career to; Spencer is passionate about taking care of the forests she grew up with and supporting the people who shaped her rural community—a dream she’s thrilled to make a reality.
“If I had a superpower, it would be to hear what dogs are thinking.”
Chris Garcelon
CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT SPECIALIST
Chris Garcelon
CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT SPECIALIST
Born in Vancouver and raised in various places across the Country, Chris has embraced a diverse range of experiences throughout his life, living in places as varied as Saint John, St. Andrews, Canmore, Jasper, and even Bermuda. Finally, setting roots here in the Maritimes, he considers Fredericton his hometown. Chris is excited to embark on this new chapter here in Nova Scotia, where he will serve the West region of the province.
A self-proclaimed jack-of-all-trades and a lifelong learner, Chris possesses a broad skill set that enables him to tackle challenges from multiple perspectives. His passion for the outdoors is reflected in his numerous hobbies, which include camping, hunting/foraging, swimming, biking, snowboarding, etc.
Chris holds a Bachelor of Science in Forestry from the University of New Brunswick, graduating as a member of the class of 2017. Shortly after, he seized an opportunity in the booming new cannabis industry, where he quickly advanced through various roles to become a Continuous Improvement Specialist. In this capacity, he earned a Green Belt Certification, honing his skills in identifying inefficiencies and implementing effective solutions.
Now, Chris is eager to apply his expertise in continuous improvement to the forestry sector. The Forestry Sector Council will collaborate with various stakeholders to enhance industry processes, striving to make them more equitable and profitable. With a fresh perspective and a commitment to innovation, Chris is excited to see what is in store in his journey with the Forestry Sector Council team.
“If I could have a superpower, it would be the ability to morph into anything. This power would allow me to truly understand different perspectives; I could put myself in anyone’s shoes—literally and figuratively. It would be an incredible way to connect with others and gain insights into their knowledge.“
Kerri Marshall
EVENTS AND OUTREACH SPECIALIST
Kerri Marshall
EVENTS AND OUTREACH SPECIALIST
Known for her strong communication skills, commitment to equity, and ability to build lasting partnerships, Kerri continues to act as a connector between communities and opportunities, helping individuals thrive and employers build inclusive, resilient workforces.
Ariel Durning
OFFICE AND PROGRAM ADMINISTRATOR
Ariel Durning
OFFICE AND PROGRAM ADMINISTRATOR
Ariel Durning brings a strong background in administration and client service to her new role as Office and Program Administrator at the Forestry Sector Council. With previous experience as a legal assistant specializing in residential real estate, she has developed a keen eye for detail and a natural ability to keep operations running smoothly.
After seven years of living and working in beautiful Southwest Nova Scotia, Ariel recently returned to her hometown of Truro to be closer to family and friends. She studied Business Administration at Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC), and is known among colleagues as an organized, approachable, and people-focused team member who thrives in dynamic environments.
Outside of work, Ariel enjoys attending music festivals, painting, gardening, and spending quality time with friends.
“If I could have any super power I think I would chose time manipulation, to slow down or press rewind on the good times to enjoy them a little longer, or hit that fast forward button to get through the less enjoyable tasks a little quicker”
Our Indigenous Roots
Land Acknowledgement
The Forestry Sector Council is headquartered in Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq People. This territory is covered by the Treaties of Peace and Friendship, which Mi’kmaq and Wolastoqiyik (Maliseet) People first signed with the British Crown in 1726.
The treaties did not deal with surrender of lands and resources but in fact recognized Mi’kmaq and Wolastoqiyik title and established the rules for what was to be an ongoing relationship between nations. We acknowledge them as the past, present, and future caretakers of this land.
At the Forestry Sector Council, we understand that forests are important to the livelihood of Indigenous Peoples. The sustainable use of forests within their traditional territories is essential to Indigenous communities’ economic and cultural health.
We believe that encouraging increased Indigenous involvement in the forestry sector creates significant contributions to Canada’s forest-based economy and sustainable forest management.
Partners
