Alina Daati leads Intro to Conservation Tech for Wildlife Protection
Stephanie O'Donnell
Charlotte Searle leads Intro to Camera Trapping
Stephanie O'Donnell
Meredith Palmer leads The Future of Conservation Technology
Stephanie O'Donnell
Esther Githinji leads I am a Woman in Conservation Technology
Stephanie O'Donnell
Vainess Laizer leads Data Collection Apps
Stephanie O'Donnell
George Lohay leads Conservation Genetics
Stephanie O'Donnell
To build technical capacity across diverse conservation contexts, we have created a modular portfolio of standardized training materials that teach foundational competencies in conservation technology. These materials are organized into themed modules, such as wildlife monitoring, wildlife protection, and human-wildlife conflict, and are designed to be flexible and adaptable based on regional needs.
In collaboration with local host institutions and regionally recruited trainers, we tailor the curriculum to align with local ecological conditions, institutional priorities, regulatory frameworks, and learning styles. For example, because drone use is permitted in Kenya but restricted in Tanzania, modules are adjusted accordingly to ensure all content is actionable within the participant's home context. This approach ensures the training is both locally relevant and practically applicable, maximizing its long-term impact.
Examples of our core training portfolio include:
Wildlife monitoring: Camera traps, biologgers, acoustic sensors, GPS tracking
Human-wildlife conflict mitigation: Electric fencing, networked sensors, deterrent systems
Cross-cutting tools: GIS and remote sensing, artificial intelligence, and introductory coding and electronics
Core materials are developed by world leading conservation technology experts
Multiple years of programming have allowed us to refine and improve our training materials
Annual participant feedback helps guide refinement of content and development of new topics
Host institutions and local partners provide valuable input on the most relevant training needs
Educational systems vary significantly, even across countries in the same region. For example, certain types of trainings or activities - such as active learning approaches - may be more difficult for students from countries where education is centered on rote memorization. Understanding local learning preferences and adapting teaching methods accordingly can support deeper engagement.
Certain technologies or methodologies, such as drones or cloud-based data storage, may be prohibited or prohibitively expensive in some regions. Partnering with local conservation technology experts ensures that we focus on accessible, actionable technologies for our participants.
Asking local trainers develop their own materials often exceeds their time and capacity
Using standardized materials ensures consistency and reduces variability in the type and depth of content delivered.
Identifying impactful mentors, trainers, and allies
Students and mentors at WiCT Tanzania
Stephanie O'Donnell
Instructor and mentor Vainess Laizer supports WiCT participants
Stephanie O'Donnell
Mentor and instructor Alina Daati teaches Intro to Conservation Technology
Stephanie O'Donnell
Instructor and ally Benson Benjamin teaches wildlife tracking
Stephanie O'Donnell
Mentor Ashura leads a session on human-wildlife mitigation
Stephanie O'Donnell
Tanzanian government official and mentor Janemary Ntalwila leads a session on HWC
Dany Samwell
Our standardized training curriculum is delivered by female experts (academics, practitioners, and government professionals) working in conservation and conservation technology within the local region. These women serve not only as instructors, but also mentors and collaborators. By centering local female role models, we help participants envision pathways for their own careers while strengthening their ties to regional research and conservation communities. We strive to foster an inclusive environment for honest dialogue around challenges of being a woman in conservation technology and encourage lasting mentorship relationships beyond the formal training period.
However, the gender gap we seek to address can make it difficult to identify and recruit female trainers in certain technical fields. In response, we have defined three distinct roles to broaden the support system for participants:
Mentors: Local female role models who lead sessions and provide ongoing mentorship.
Allies: Male trainers and facilitators who actively support our commitment to gender equity and inclusive training spaces.
Trainers: Members of the international organizing team who provide additional instruction and logistical support.
Together, these individuals play a critical role in delivering content, fostering participant growth, and modeling diverse forms of leadership across the conservation technology landscape.
Keen interest from female leaders to foster the next generation of conservationists, including willingness to engage honestly in vulnerable conversations and provide career advice
Growing interest from allies to support development of women in their field and organizations
Funding to support attendance and honorarium for high-quality mentors and allies
We have established a code of conduct and set clear expectations up-front on how mentors and allies should engage with students during and after the program
Mentors and allies with a background in training as well as expertise in conservation tech are preferred
Wherever possible, we seek a combination of mid-career and established mentors, who can speak to participants about different stages of the conservation career journey
Male allies need to be carefully selected to create a supportive, safe environment
We maintain and cultivate female-only spaces at the workshop where male allies and trainers are not allowed
Participants engage in classroom activities at RISE Grumeti
Dany Samwell
Host institutions are selected based on their capacity to support both classroom and field-based instruction, and on their engagement with active conservation challenges where technology plays a meaningful role. For instance, the RISE Grumeti Fund in Tanzania is an ideal training site, offering educational facilities, student accommodations, and running active, tech-enabled initiatives such as anti-poaching and rhino protection programs.
Furthermore, we prioritize institutions that share our commitment to advancing education for women and early-career conservationists, have strong ties to local conservation and research communities, and demonstrate leadership in integrating technology into conservation practice. These partnerships are essential to ensuring our program is both sustainable and deeply embedded in the communities it aims to serve.
Local partners with aligned visions in education, upskilling, and empowerment
On-the-ground support from women within the host and collaborating organizations
Networks of experienced local educators and trainers in the conservation technology space
Host institutions with strong ties to local conservation, research, and government networks are best positioned to identify and recruit experienced female professionals to serve as trainers and mentors.
Institutions that already manage other training programs often have existing infrastructure and logistical systems in place, making them well-equipped to support student cohorts.
Sites where a wide range of conservation technologies are actively in use offer students valuable, hands-on exposure to tools in real-world settings.
A shared commitment to the program’s vision, particularly around gender equity and empowerment, is essential to creating a safe, supportive environment where women can build community, grow professionally, and develop leadership skills.
Our team analyzed the data with the combined expertise of our partners and in collaboration with a local NGO dedicated to reforestation efforts. This NGO is using our scientific findings to guide practical restoration actions, including the selection of plant species that attract and support local wildlife. This partnership ensures that our research is directly applied to enhance reforestation efforts, promoting self-sustaining and resilient forest ecosystems
