From Ranger to Bushfire Leader

When Andrew Greenwood enrolled at Charles Darwin University (CDU) in 2000, he was already working as a ranger with NT Parks. Rather than choosing between study and work, he did both – building a career in environmental management while gaining the qualifications to support it.

"I was lucky to study and work at the same time," Andrew says.

Starting his Bachelor of Environmental Science in Darwin before relocating to Alice Springs, Andrew combined hands-on experience in land management with environmental science studies. That decision laid the foundation for a career spanning more than two decades across Australia.

Today, Andrew is the Manager of Bushfire Mitigation for South East Queensland with the Queensland Fire Department, leading a team responsible for bushfire planning and risk reduction across the region.

Learning in the field

Andrew's study journey wasn't a straight line. After moving back to Queensland in 2007, he continued studying online while working full-time in land and fire management. Balancing career and study meant late nights, online discussions and plenty of persistence.

When changes to degree requirements meant he still had subjects to complete, Andrew adapted and transitioned into CDU's updated environmental science program to finish his qualification.

Throughout the process, support from CDU staff and fellow students helped him stay on track.

"CDU gave me the guidance and understanding of the environmental field and allowed me to focus on subjects relevant to the work I was doing."

Protecting communities and landscapes

Andrew's career has taken him to the frontlines of some of Australia's most significant natural disasters.

He played a role in responding to the devastating 2019 bushfires and was part of a small team that tackled more than 70 fires across south-west Queensland in 2025.

For Andrew, the most rewarding part of the job is the people.

"I love the community, the mateship, the learning and working alongside people who share the same passion."

His career highlights also include discovering extremely rare plant species across the Northern Territory and Queensland and receiving recognition as a Queensland Flood Hero following the state's 2014 flood response.

Advice for future environmental scientists

Andrew encourages students to gain practical experience as early as possible.

"Volunteer with parks, community catchment groups or conservation organisations. Volunteer firefighting is another excellent way to learn skills."

He also recommends applying for entry-level ranger positions while studying and taking every opportunity to build industry connections.

Looking back, he would tell his younger self not to shy away from challenging subjects.

"Step outside your comfort zone. Some of the subjects you least expect can teach you the most."

A career built on passion and persistence

From working as a ranger in Central Australia to leading bushfire mitigation efforts, Andrew's career demonstrates the value of combining study with real-world experience.

His story is a reminder that environmental science isn't just about understanding ecosystems – it's about protecting landscapes, supporting communities and creating meaningful change.

For students considering a career in conservation, land management or fire ecology, Andrew's advice is simple: get involved, stay curious and learn by doing.

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