A Highlight with Tomas Sokolon

What kind of work do you do?

By profession, I am a biologist, and in my current role I serve as the Program Director for the Agroforestry & Woodlot Extension Society (AWES). I manage the design, planning, and implementation of our large-scale restoration projects, while also overseeing day-to-day operations. As a participant in Natural Resources Canada’s Billion Trees Program, AWES executes a wide range of initiatives, including shelterbelts and eco-buffers, post-fire reforestation, riparian restoration, and forest grazing.

Do you volunteer for any environmental organizations?

I serve on the Woodlot Management Plan Committee for the Woodlot Association of Alberta, where I am also a board member. In addition, I act as a technical advisor for Sturgeon County’s ALUS program.

What has been your greatest accomplishment or what are you most proud of?

Nowadays, I feel honored to be trusted with the design and management of restoration projects, but I started out in this space as a tree planter. I still feel as though my greatest accomplishment is the half-million trees I’ve planted.

What advice do you have for students and emerging professionals?

Embrace discomfort; It can be a sign that you are growing.

Tomas Sokolon / MSc, P. Biol, RPBio / Edmonton, Alberta / Vice-Chair