Postcards from the Field: Michael McGregor

Shell Conservation Intern Michael McGregor

Howdy from Alberta,

My name is Michael McGregor, and I'm one of three Shell Conservation Interns working with the Nature Conservancy of Canada based out of Calgary. I have recently completed my Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Geography and a concentration in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) at the University of Lethbridge. I'm ecstatic to begin my professional career path with the Nature Conservancy of Canada.

I was born and raised in Calgary, for as long as I can remember my favorite part about living in this city is that in just a short drive and hike you can be half way up a mountain. When I went to university and realized that I could have a career that contributes to the protection of Southern Alberta's beautiful landscapes and the life that inhabits them, my career aspirations suddenly became very clear.

Crowsnest Lake Property, Crowsnest Pass, Alberta

From the badlands of Drumheller, to Cypress Hills and all the way to the Rockies, the diversity of amazing places that this incredible province has to offer has become my office on a daily basis. Whether it is a Grizzly Bear, a Great Grey Owl, the first Crocus of the year or a field of Tiger Lilies each place that I visit offers something memorable. This summer has allowed me to experience and appreciate Southern Alberta like I never have before.

Working with the NCC has allowed me to strengthen the skills I developed at University in a professional setting, while at the same time continually challenging me in many other areas allowing me to acquire skill sets that until now I had not had a chance to build. I have learned hands-on about rare plants, bird songs and animal identification, while having the pleasure to meet and work with many environmentally minded individuals who deal with real-world conservation issues and who make a real difference in our society.

The Shell Conservation Internship has provided me with a summer I will always remember; it will be a large stepping-stone to my future in both my professional and personal life. The skills that I have learned and the friends that I have made will be with me as I continue my career. My goals are to continue working in the environmental not-for-profit industry because I believe in the work that they do for protecting Alberta and Canada's most beautiful landscapes.

Take care I’m heading to the backcountry!!!

Michael McGregor