Environmental Scientist

Mark Gasquoine grew up on a dairy farm which fuelled his enthusiasm for a career in agriculture and for farming in a way that would leave the land in a better state for the future.

In his current role at Waikato Regional Council, Mark works with farmers to ensure they are applying environmental best practice and operating within certain requirements.

He regularly engages with farmers, rural professionals and other groups to ensure industry-wide collaboration – giving him plenty of opportunities to get out of the office and onto farms!

Caleb Highman wasn’t sure what to study or exactly what he wanted to do after high school. His high school careers advisor pointed him in the direction of science, a career in which he could enjoy the outdoors and science.

“I’ve always loved science. I find it fascinating; science explains the world around me and I’ve always been curious about that.”

Caleb studied at The University of Waikato. “I was initially enrolled in earth science, but qualified with a Bachelor of Science, completing a double major in Biology and Chemistry.”