91ÅÝܽ

Resource & Environmental Management master's student in the

Tell us a little about yourself, including what inspires you to learn and continue in your chosen field

I graduated with a B.A. in Political Science from 91ÅÝܽ and now furthering my education by pursuing a Master of Resource & Environmental Management with thesis research focused on Tidal Energy in the Ocean Equity Lab.

Currently, I am employed at BC Hydro as a Project Manager for the Mass Residential Market (ex. Solar energy, battery storage, self-generation, heat pumps, etc.) and a former volunteer Climate Research and Policy Lead at BCCIC’s Climate Change Branch. I’ve also had the opportunity to speak on multiple climate action/youth engagement panels and attend the United Nations Climate Change Conference 2022 (COP27) in Egypt and 2023 (COP28) in Dubai as a youth delegate.

Growing up on (kayaking, paddleboarding & surfing), in (swimming), or under (scuba diving) the water along BC's coast has inspired my commitment to marine conservation and sustainable, renewable energy development and I am eager to take part in the movement to create a better Earth for future generations.

Why did you choose to come to SFU?

I pursued a bachelors degree in Political Science at SFU a few years ago, and enjoyed the networking and opportunities for young people (especially the field schools such as the NATO Field School) and decided to come back to pursue a Masters degree.

How would you describe your research or your program to a family member?

My research aims to integrate equity and investigate the the environmental and regulatory barriers impacting the sustainable development of tidal energy in British Columbia.

What three (3) keywords would you use to describe your research?

Tidal Energy, Environment, Policy

How have your courses, RA-ships, TA-ships, or non-academic school experiences contributed to your academic and/or professional development?

I have been extremely fortunate to participate in various field schools during my bachelor’s and master’s degree and would highly recommend these opportunities to any future/current students! For example, the NATO Field School (2019) and BMSC Scientific Diving (2024) have been instrumental in shaping my academic research and professional development by deepening my understanding of international affairs, marine conservation, and environmental science while providing hands-on experience in both fieldwork and research.

Have you been the recipient of any major or donor-funded awards? If so, please tell us which ones and a little about how the awards have impacted your studies and/or research

I am extremely grateful for the award I received from the Natural Science and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) in 2023/2024. I was able to pursue scientific diving (and become a CAUS Scientific Diver I) at BMSC to better understand the local marine environment by scuba diving and research the local marine life.

What have been the most valuable lessons you've learned along your graduate student journey (or in becoming a graduate student)?

1. Network Network Network!!! Go to events, conferences, trainings, etc. to build meaningful connections with people of diverse backgrounds, it will open doors you never knew existed and expand your own perspectives.

2. Get involved especially in volunteer work/roles related to a sector/industry you are interested in. Not only is it a great way to get your foot in the door, but the hands-on exposure and insights will help you discover early on what you truly enjoy (or don't enjoy lol!)

3. Live by the famous Socratic saying: "I know I that I am intelligent/wise, because I know that I know nothing" Don't be afraid to ask the "silly" questions (nobody is judging you for learning) and stay curious and humble in your academic & professional development.

Contact Ashley:akelsey@sfu.ca

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