Introducing Claire Schadeli: A Passionate Advocate for Wildlife and Wetlands

Introducing Claire Schadeli: A Passionate Advocate for Wildlife and Wetlands

Welcome Claire Schadeli, our new Senior Terrestrial Biologist, to VAST Resource Solutions.

Originally from Creston, B.C., Claire comes to us from Calgary, Alberta, where she spent the last 10 years as a Senior Terrestrial Biologist/Project Manager.

“I joined the VAST team because it gave me an opportunity to return to the Kootenays and be closer to family– I love the region, the outdoor lifestyle, and the area’s diverse natural beauty,” said Claire. “I’m also excited to be part of a company that not only brings together a variety of environmental specialists with unique skills and experience, but also has the in-house support of engineers, foresters, and technicians.”

Claire holds a BSc in Natural Resource Science from Thompson Rivers University and a Diploma in Conservation and Restoration Ecology from Lakeland College. Her specialized focus lies in wildlife and vegetation, particularly within wetland ecosystems, where she holds the accreditation of Qualified Wetlands Authenticating Professional in Alberta.

“Growing up in Creston, I spent a lot of time in the Creston Wildlife Management Area, and it had such an amazing amount of biodiversity. You never knew what you were going to see or find,” said Claire. “I got hooked on wildlife and wetlands at a young age and have spent my career building on that passion and curiosity.”

Now, with more than 14 years of experience in the environmental sector, Claire’s expertise as a senior biologist spans diverse industries such as mining, oil and gas, infrastructure (pipeline and transmission), power, and land development. In her new role with VAST, Claire will provide science-driven leadership in project management, overseeing a range of programs and studies focused on wildlife, terrestrial and wetland habitats, and vegetation assessments.

“I’m also looking forward to being a strong mentor for younger biologists or summer students who are establishing their career as biologists. I was lucky to have had good mentorship throughout my career, and I am passionate about sharing my knowledge with others.”

Claire is a Registered Professional Biologist (RPBio) with the British Columbia College of Applied Biologists and a Professional Biologist (P. Biol.) with the Alberta Society of Professional Biologists. In her free time, she enjoys an active outdoor lifestyle with her husband and three-year-old son.

With a keen eye for detail and a passion for environmental conservation, Claire is poised to make significant contributions to VAST Resource Solutions and the communities we serve. We are thrilled to have her on board as we continue our commitment to sustainable resource management and ecological stewardship. Welcome, Claire, to the VAST family.