33-year-old Sarah Myers, a top forester, took a sharp turn in her professional trajectory. In 2024, she pulled in $92,100 as a supervisory forester, far surpassing her former life of seasonal employment. For years, she fought the insecurity of episodic work. She spent the summer juggling different seasonal jobs around the country, making only $15 an hour. Her determination and commitment to her craft turned out to be the right combination, leading her to win a permanent position in September of 2022.
Myers’ path started with a string of seasonal jobs ranging from 2013-2017. She spent her summers working in Virginia, Maine, and South Dakota. During the winter, she began to move to Arkansas, Arizona, New Mexico, and Alaska. These wonderfully different experiences expanded her world view and knowledge of the field of forestry and environmental issues, although working multiple jobs took a toll on her. At one point, she even had to pay rent in two separate places—one for during the week and another for weekends.
In 2020, Myers checked an important box — as the first member of her family to complete her master’s degree in geographic information science and cartography. That pursuit of academic excellence equipped her with the skills and knowledge she needed to thrive in her field. Eventually, she landed her first permanent job—working in Colorado—in January of 2018. Even in making the full jump, she had to work for $15 an hour for some time before completely transitioning.
Myers describes her current position as the culmination of her hard work and dedication: “The position I’m in now feels like it was made for me.” Her position gives her the opportunity to be hyper-immersed in the environment she’s passionate about while working alongside a multitude of experts within the field of forestry.
“My advice is to learn as much as you can from the hydrologists, wildlife biologists, fuels specialists, etc., and help them accomplish their goals too,” Myers stated. Her high regard for collaboration and collective achievement is a testament to her work ethic. She emphasizes that there is no room for complacency in her field: “There’s no such thing as ‘that’s not my job.’”
Outside of her professional pursuits, Myers has a deep personal commitment to the environment. It’s the depth of history that these forests hold, and the delight in that, that she connects to. “I love the sense of history you get in the forests,” she remarked, highlighting her connection to the environment.
Reflecting on her journey, Myers acknowledges the advice given by her mentor: “Expect about six to eight years-worth of seasonal positions.” Her fierce resolve and love of nature was evident as these young women prepared for the trials to come. Ultimately, they steered her toward a rewarding and sustainable career.