5 things I wish I knew before joining Onward
Environmental consultant Emma Spires joined Onward three years ago as an intern while she completed her university degree in environmental science. At the time, she knew very little about the world of environmental consulting and wasn't quite sure what to expect from working in a company like Onward.
Looking back, one thing Emma wished she’d had before starting was an insider's perspective. She’s shared a few of the lessons she’s learned from her time at Onward.
5 things I wish I knew before joining Onward
1. You don't need to know everything on day one
Starting your first professional role can feel overwhelming, especially when you're surrounded by experienced consultants. One of the biggest lessons I've learned is that no one expects you to have all the answers straight away. Onward also has a graduate program that is designed to help you build your knowledge over time, with plenty of support from mentors and colleagues along the way.
2. Make the most of the resources around you
At Onward, we have a wealth of knowledge and resources at your fingertips. From procedure documents and guidance videos, there are plenty of resources to help you work through unfamiliar tasks. Trying to find the answer yourself is a great way to build confidence, and if you do get stuck, there's always someone willing to answer questions and offer support.
3. Every day is different
One of the things I enjoy most about environmental consulting is that there is always something new to learn and no two days are the same. Whether it's working on a different type of project, learning a new process or collaborating with a different team member, each experience helps you build your skills. Approaching each task with curiosity and a willingness to learn will make the transition from university to consulting much smoother.
4. Start good organisational habits early
When you're working across multiple projects, while balancing deadlines, staying organised is essential. Developing good habits early, such as keeping a detailed to-do list, tracking your time and taking clear notes, will make a huge difference. It's a skill that not only reduces stress but also helps you work more efficiently as your responsibilities grow.
5. Communication is just as important as technical skills
While technical knowledge is important, being able to communicate effectively is just as valuable. Environmental consulting is all about working with people from collaborating with colleagues, communicating with clients or writing clear, concise reports. Learning how to explain technical information in a way that others can understand is an important skill to learn, and initiatives like the graduate program help with this development.
Onward’s Graduate Program
The Onward Graduate Program provides a structured pathway from university into consulting, with exposure across the five disciplines, ongoing professional development and support from experienced mentors.
I was fortunate to be invited to join the Graduate Program, which has been a fantastic opportunity to continue developing both professionally and technically. With the support of my mentor, we've set personalised development goals and tailored my learning opportunities.
So far, I've had the opportunity to work across all five of Onward's disciplines, attend company-funded training courses and industry conferences, and continue building my confidence through hands-on project experience. The Graduate Program offers a rare opportunity to gain rounded experience in consultancy and builds an important foundation for a successful career.
Applications for the 2027 Graduate Program are now open. For details on how to apply, visit Graduate Program.
