A decade of impact, growth, and meaningful pathways into environmental careers

A Decade of Purpose, People, and Impact

Ten years ago, NRTG began with a simple but powerful idea: education should do more than inform—it should transform.

What started as a response to a gap in traditional education has grown into something much bigger: a community of passionate instructors, dedicated team members, and thousands of students now protecting the lands, waters, and communities we all depend on.

Over the past decade, more than 27,000 students have taken part in NRTG programs. But what truly defines this journey isn’t just the number—it’s the impact behind each one.

It’s the student stepping into a new career. The instructor sharing knowledge in the field. The team working behind the scenes to make it all possible. And the shared belief that this work matters.

The Beginning – Building Something That Matters

NRTG was founded on a clear observation: traditional post-secondary education wasn’t fully equipping students with the practical skills and competencies employers consistently sought.

Through his experience in educational leadership and industry employer, Darren saw firsthand the gap between academic learning and real-world job requirements. “I was convinced we could create positive change and lasting impact,” he recalls. “The challenge was clear: how could we design and deliver practical training in realistic field scenarios—balancing theory with hands-on experience—so students were genuinely prepared for the workplace?”

From the beginning, the vision was clear—put students first.

“Education must do more than inform—it must prepare people for real work and real opportunities.”

Early days were built on commitment and adaptability. A small team delivered in-person training in communities across Canada, often traveling extensively to bring programs directly to learners.

From Idea to Impact – A Decade of Growth

Over the past 10 years, NRTG has evolved from a focused training provider into a dynamic, forward-thinking organization.

Key milestones include:

Expansion throughout Canada
Growth of a strong, values-driven team
Rapid adaptation during the pandemic to online delivery
International expansion
Increased accessibility without losing hands-on experience

Sean Mitchell, a senior team member, recalls sensing the company’s potential right from the start: “After my very first delivery, I phoned up a good friend and told him about this amazing new, small company that was going to change the world.”

Today, our online programs reach learners in 10 countries, extending the practical, community-rooted model we built in Canada to new regions and contexts.

Through every stage, one principle has remained constant: students come first.

What Makes NRTG Different – A Team Perspective

Ask anyone on the team what NRTG means to them, and you’ll hear a common thread: care, purpose, and impact.

People & Culture

“Being part of NRTG means working alongside people who truly care—and getting to see the real impact of that work on people’s lives.”— Angeline Bristol, Head of Partnerships and Communications

“NRTG is the heartbeat of its people—guided by kindness, empathy, and a shared commitment to making a meaningful impact.”— Joeline Lim, Program Manager

“The wonderful people you work with become your friends and family. Knowing you can depend on each other both in work and in life.”— Tracy Lewis-McNutt, Bookkeeper

“At NRTG, you feel supported, trusted, and surrounded by people who genuinely care.”— Anna Jardine, Website IT Technician

Purpose & Impact

“At NRTG, we’re not just delivering training—we’re creating pathways into meaningful work and opening doors that can change lives.”— Caroline Turnbull, Head of People & Culture | Global Strategy Lead

“NRTG is on the right side of history—creating real change for people and the environment we all depend on.”— Jordan Copestake, Director of Operations

“At NRTG, we lead with our hearts—protecting the land while helping people grow into confident leaders in their communities.”— Kristy Callahan, Account Executive

“NRTG puts its heart first. We teach a certain way because we want to reach and empower the students. We work hard to support and encourage them through the courses and beyond into the future.”— Sean Mitchell, Program Manager

Growth & Opportunity

“At NRTG, I get to connect people with training that truly fits their needs—and see it come to life in the field.”— Gwen Schroeder, Program Manager / Instructor

“NRTG exists as a compassionate enabler to environmental enthusiasts hoping to make a difference in their local areas… a common safe space to explore sustainable ways of living and working.”— Jason Regimbal, Customer Service

Learning in Action – The Instructor Experience

10 Years of NRTG People, Purpose, and Possibility — **NRTG team and students in the field—where learning, connection, and real-world impact come together.**

At the heart of NRTG’s approach is a commitment to practical, hands-on learning. Training combines classroom knowledge with real-world application—ensuring students gain the skills and confidence needed to succeed in the field.

Lauri Solsberg shares: “What’s unique about NRTG is that training is never one-size-fits-all—it’s built for real-world application.”

He adds: “What I enjoy most is being able to offer a combination of classroom sessions and fieldwork. It is the only way to understand and be able to respond to oil and chemical spills… NRTG offers much more than just general basic spill training.”

Long-time instructor Morgan Brown reflects on a decade with NRTG: “I have been very lucky to live some of my dreams with NRTG, designing programs, sharing knowledge and learning along the way. Given freedom in the sharing of knowledge.” Many of his deliveries have been in Indigenous communities, where students generously share their culture. One memorable moment involved co-teaching with a former student who had gone on to secure a forestry job in his community and returned as a leader. Another highlight was teaching at a spiritually significant site near the Chippewa of the Thames First Nation—a re-created longhouse area that allowed threading tree species knowledge with historical and cultural context.

In many communities, especially Indigenous communities, training becomes a shared experience—where knowledge flows both ways and meaningful connections are built. Seeing students return—not just as participants, but as leaders in their communities—is a powerful reflection of the long-term impact of this work.

Real Impact – Stories That Matter

One story that stands out is Matt’s.

At a time when he was struggling to find direction, Matt reached out to the NRTG team for mentoring. He enrolled in the Electrofishing Certification, then the Environmental Field Skills Certificate. Through every step, the team stayed in touch—offering impartial advice, encouragement, and belief in him when he needed it most.

Today, Matt is a Field Manager, leading projects and mentoring junior staff. His journey from uncertainty to leadership is living proof of what NRTG is built on: ongoing support, real opportunity, and the kind of lasting impact that changes lives.

The Culture Behind the Growth

Behind every program and success story is a culture built on:

Trust and collaboration
Support and encouragement
Adaptability and resilience
A shared commitment to meaningful work

It’s a culture that allows people to do their best work—and make a real difference.

Looking Ahead – The Next 10 Years

As NRTG looks to the future, the vision is clear: global expansion, new programs, and deeper partnerships—all while keeping students at the heart of everything we do.

Our online training already reaches learners in 10 countries, extending the practical, community-rooted approach we pioneered in Canada to new regions and contexts.

These kinds of meaningful conversations are happening with communities and clients around the world. Many groups are exploring how to adapt the spirit of programs like our Land Guardian Program to empower local Guardians or Rangers, support large-scale restoration efforts, and help revive cultural connections to the land. A common thread is the belief that restoring the natural world—starting with plants—brings back wildlife, fish, people, and culture.

What resonates most is not exporting our exact courses, but collaborating to build locally relevant content taught in the NRTG way—emphasizing heart, empowerment, trust-building, and cultural respect. Partners value our philosophy of leading with empathy and putting people first.

“The possibilities feel endless—and it’s exciting to see our shared vision coming to life.” — Angeline Bristol, Head of Partnerships and Communications

A Legacy of Impact

After 10 years, one thing remains at the core of NRTG: A commitment to doing things differently. Leading with empathy. Putting students first. Creating opportunities that matter.

To the team, instructors, students, and partners who have been part of this journey:

Thank you.

The first 10 years have been just the beginning.

10 Years of NRTG: People, Purpose, and Possibility