Work Learn Profile: Mairead Norton

What is your position title?

BC Food Web Science Communication Assistant

What did you work on in this role?

I was able to work on a wide variety of communication projects, ranging from webinars and social media to research briefs. I helped the BC Food Web advance its mission to make the incredible research the CSFS and its partners around the province are producing more accessible to farmers and food system workers.

What did you learn in this position?

Coming into this position, I had little to no background in the agricultural and food system sectors, so my biggest learning accomplishment was discovering all the amazing work going on in this corner of the world! I learnt so much about the importance of accessible research and education, public outreach and engagement, and strong communities.

Why does this work matter?

The research that the CSFS and others are producing has the ability to change the way we do agriculture, to restructure our food systems, and to make significant strides towards a more sustainable future. However, this research can be difficult to access and understand. The work of the BC Food Web aims to bridge this gap and bring amazing solutions onto the farm.

What would you tell a new student taking on this role? Or what do you wish you had known?

Get ready to learn and grow a lot! The CSFS and the UBC Farm is an incredibly supportive community that will motivate you to try new things and reach your full potential. Take advantage of this incredible network while you can.

What should people know about the UBC Farm that they probably don’t know?

It is so much more than just the physical farm! While that space is amazing and everything that goes on there incredible to witness, the UBC Farm and the CSFS have so many more projects – one of them being the BC Food Web.

What’s your favourite thing to do at the UBC Farm?

Just be there and soak up the sun (if there is any)! My position has always been remote, even before COVID-19, so any chance I have to get onto the farm is a privilege!

What other roles have you held at CSFS at the UBC Farm?

This was my first role with the CSFS and UBC Farm, however, I am very luck and excited to be moving into my new role with the CSFS at their Webinar Coordinator for the summer of 2021!