Tara Bauer (she/her)

About me

I was born/grew up in: Kingston, Ontario

I now live in: Kingston, Ontario

I completed my training/education at: I completed both my Bachelor and Master of Science in Environmental Science at the University of Guelph.

What I do at work

As someone who is working for two different organizations, my workday is never the same. I love the variety and flexibility of my work!  I’m the co-founder of an environmental organization called blue marble learning scene. We create resources and activities that reconnect people of all ages to nature. In this role my day could involve creating social media content about nature, or creating free, nature inspired, educational materials. I might be brainstorming new ways to connect people with nature or creating hands-on activities to share nature knowledge. Or, I might be engaged in marketing our products and services, networking with other organizations to expand our programs, and leading in person activities.

I’m also the Director for Turtles Kingston. This organization helps protect turtles by supporting and encouraging community action. In this role my day could involve answering questions from the public about turtle conservation or rescuing an injured turtle or turtle nest. I might be providing support and guidance to other team members or researching turtle facts. I might be networking with City staff to improve turtle conservation efforts or participating in public meetings about development projects. At other times I will be hosting events, interviewing new team members, creating informational handouts, and advising people on turtle conservation.

In both these roles, I use my knowledge of math, biology, chemistry, and physics in relation to nature. This is certainly true when I advocate on behalf of turtles. This is usually done when new development projects are being planned. As part of our support for turtles in the area, I must review and understand many different documents related to the proposal. These can be anything from environmental impact assessments to landscape designs, to construction technical drawings and more. These documents are complicated. They include STEM language and information and are much easier to understand with a background in STEM. Not only am I using the knowledge I have but I'm constantly adding to my STEM knowledge. One of my favourite aspects of working is when I get to learn something new from someone else.

My career path is

My career path was not expected and has gone all over the place. I always knew I would work in the environmental sector. But I did not expect to be in education and outreach. All through school I loved doing science and research. I was so curious and motivated by learning that I expected to be a lifelong researcher.

During my bachelor’s degree I did a coop program. I had several different jobs that allowed me to explore different research areas and I loved them all. I completed my masters in hydrogeology and expected to work either at a university or conservation authority continuing in research. However, during all my education I always sought out opportunities to teach others and share knowledge. I tutored throughout high school and university. I taught as a Teaching Assistant during my masters. I also took on a volunteer position with Let’s Talk Science.

These breaks in my research work to educate others were great. But it wasn’t until I got a job as an environmental consultant that I realized how much I missed sharing my knowledge with others. So, I searched for a job that could combine research and education. I was able to find this at a conservation authority. My actual job didn’t include much teaching. But they were flexible enough in my workload that I could pop over to help the education team occasionally.

As I got more work experience under my belt, I realized what I wanted in a career. Of course, I wanted it all - research, education, flexibility, autonomy, control, etc. The only way I could see to get everything was to start my own business. I am only 2 years into this new adventure, but it has the potential to be everything I want.

I am motivated by

I have worked at jobs in several different environmental science sectors. In those jobs I was involved in consulting, research, and conservation.  I really love how working for myself has offered me flexibility. I also enjoy that the work I do means no day is the same and I’m never bored! Through both positions I’ve been able to combine my passions and hobbies. This means I am easily excited to get to work each day. I get to do photography, education, art, and research. At the same time, I’m making a difference to turtle populations or while motivating the next generation to be Earth Warriors.

This career is right for me as I have learned that I enjoy having control over my schedule and projects. I’m a very organized person. In my previous jobs I was always happiest when I was in full control of a project. Being the owner and director of an organization is perfect for me because that control comes naturally with the position.

How I affect peoples’ lives

In my position with blue marble learning scene, we aim to connect people with nature. We do this to help inspire them to be more environmentally friendly. As many have said, it's hard to care about something you don't know about. As a result, my goal is to help people know nature so they will care for it. It may be indirect, but I am helping reduce our impact on the Earth. I find this work very fulfilling.

In my position with Turtles Kingston, I am actively supporting turtle conservation in Ontario. All Ontario turtles are species at risk. This means their populations are in decline and need help to survive. At Turtles Kingston we provide information and resources to help people learn what they can do to help turtle populations. The direct impacts and results that I see from my work with Turtles Kingston are very rewarding.

Outside of work I

Being outdoors always brings me joy. I like to hike, garden, camp, canoe, and just explore nature. I also enjoy playing volleyball and playing music. I enjoy trying my hand at different arts and crafts. For example, I’m currently exploring wood burning and capturing flowers in resin.

My advice to others

My path here wasn’t straight and I didn’t always know what I wanted. But I welcomed every work or volunteer opportunity as a chance to learn about the environment and myself. That is why I always encourage others to accept opportunities. Say “yes” even if you cannot see yourself there for even 3 years. Every role you take will help you learn about yourself. Also, you will gain more experience with every opportunity.