We’ve Reached the Top

Cartoon by Kendra Allenby; August 22, 2024, New Yorker

A friend of mine shared this cartoon with me and it represents exactly why I started Dirigo Science Connection. Scientists spend so many years building their technical skills through volunteering, internships, and job after job. The passion to save the world, study ecosystems, explore, challenge ideas and inspire conservation and sustainability is why we all entered into a science career in some fashion.

Unfortunately for most of us though, science organizations do not prioritize and rarely offer any management or leadership training. I find that remarkably irresponsible! I used to work at one of the best institutions in the country and even they didn’t care about investing in the growth of their staff.

So why should they? Because having stronger communication, feedback, conflict management, collaboration and team building skills allows you to properly navigate challenges in your role as a team leader.

This creates more opportunities for your staff to take on bigger roles, work through conflict, approach projects with more efficiency and establish a high level of trust. Why would you not want that?

This is your chance to take that first step toward building a stronger team that people want to be a part of. This is why DSC exists…stronger leaders, stronger science!