Jump Start -- by Mark Sproxton

While the field of bugs may seem a somewhat unusual industry, there are several places to begin formal and informal training. The following provides a list of potential starting points for those considering working in bugs.

The universities of Calgary and Alberta offer science degrees up to and including the doctorate level. At Calgary, a variety of scholarships and fellowships are available for those continuing with graduate studies. The University of Alberta also offers graduate teaching and research assistantships.

Those considering beekeeping can get started in the industry with a course offered at Olds College. Through its extension services department, a course from the University of Guelph covers everything you want to know about beekeeping. Students can begin the course at any time, and can expect the course to take between 100 and 120 hours to complete. To view course information on-line, visit Olds College then click on Ontario Diploma in Agriculture (ODA) and that will take you to the University of Guelph site. Then click on Food Production & Processing under Agriculture, Food & Environment to get to the course description.

To obtain a structural licence to become an exterminator in Alberta, you'll have to take a core pesticide course delivered through Lakeland College, as well as a Pest Control Technology Course via correspondence fromPurdue University.

Understanding scientific principles can be developed through visits to the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary, and the Calgary Science Centre. The bird sanctuary offers nature tours and guided naturalist hikes, while the science centre offers astronomy courses, and its web site has links to other scientific organizations.

The Calgary Field Naturalist Society has regular bird and botany tours/discussions and can be reached by calling 285-8553.

For those looking to gain some direct experience, while being paid, check out The Public Service Commission of Canada. The commission helps find people for positions within the federal government, including those doing work with bugs.

Membership in groups, such as the Alberta Beekeeper's Association, the Entomological Society of Alberta, or the Entomological Society of Canada will also provide invaluable learning and networking opportunities.