From scientist to manager: Developing leadership skills for early career scientists

Environment Canada is challenged by the high number of retiring managers in scientific positions and few early and mid career scientists willing or able to fulfill those positions. This qualitative action research study examined what support Environment Canada, Pacific and Yukon can provide to early career scientists in exploring positions in management. The opportunity existed to investigate the concept of career development with scientists to determine why and how they make career decisions. Data was collected using a mixed methods survey and three focus groups. The results indicated that different types of scientific professionals require different career development opportunities and mentorship plays a key role in shaping employees perceptions. Scientists also want to maintain their scientific skills, while taking on leadership and management positions. Perceived administrative burdens on managers represented a challenge of attracting scientists to managerial positions.