Martyn Owen
Martyn is the owner/director of an ecological consultancy that operates throughout the UK. He is also the joint-owner of a nature reserve and wildlife watching hide on Estonia, and runs an online ecology related webzine.
What happened after you left Bridgnorth Endowed School?
Having left the Sixth Form, I wasn’t sure what path my life would take and worked in a variety of different roles. I’ve always been passionate about wildlife and the outdoors, but initially didn’t realise there were careers that would enable me to earn a living while pursuing these interests.
Following discussions with an ex-Bridgnorth Endowed student and school friend, Richard Moores, who was already working as a professional ecologist, I decided to attend the University of Wolverhampton to study Environmental Science.
After graduating, I started out as an ecologist and ornithologist for a number of large environmental consultancy companies, and had the opportunity to work on some major projects.
In 2015, Richard and I formed BiOME Consulting, and have since worked on ecology projects across the UK and in Africa, as well as completing ecological research projects throughout Europe.
What does your current job involve?
The summer months are predominantly spent obtaining survey data to inform development proposals. These data are then assessed to determine potential ecological impact(s) of the development and, if any are anticipated, mitigation measures are identified to ensure that the project does not have a detrimental ecological impact.
The winter months tend to be spent writing reports and completing Environmental Impact Assessments, as well as carrying out the more tedious aspects of business management. We also go on at least one ecological research trip each year, usually with the intention of obtaining information on rare species distribution in data deficient areas.
What achievement are you most proud of?
Working hard to successfully turn my hobby into a career, which has enabled me to do what I love every day.
What were the highlights of your time at Bridgnorth Endowed School?
Bridgnorth Endowed offered me excellent scope to pursue my sporting interests, and the facilities and teaching enabled me to maximise my sporting abilities. Academically, geography gave me the chance to study the natural world and the various field trips provided welcome opportunities to see natural world processes in action. These sporting events and field trips cemented friendships that endue to this day.
A word to the wise
If you’re not sure of your future career path, be brave enough to take every opportunity that comes your way. By opening your eyes to these opportunities, your path will very likely become clearer. Hope for everything, expect nothing and work harder than the rest.
