While I have always had a fascination and love for birds, I did not start out envisioning a career in ornithology. I studied ecology and evolutionary biology in university, writing my master’s thesis on the evolution of female mate choice in tropical fish. However, during this time, I began volunteering as a nest searcher at Tommy Thompson Park in Toronto and rediscovered my love of birds. After that, I decided to focus on bird research and conservation once I graduated. In my role at Birds Canada, I manage the Chimney Swift Chimney Restoration Fund. This initiative supports habitat restoration projects for this unique species across the country. I love being part of a program that directly helps the recovery of a species at risk and increases the public’s understanding and appreciation for these birds. e-mail: gclark @ birdscanada.org