Mapping the Future: Helen’s Path from Sustainability Studies to GIS Solutions

We’re pleased to introduce Helen Heartwood, who has joined Bell Ingram’s Utilities & Renewables team as a Graduate GIS Technician. Based in our Perth office, Helen supports a wide range of projects across the utilities, rural land management and forestry sectors. She brings strong geospatial skills to help deliver practical, data-led solutions that support both clients and internal teams.

Helen recently completed her MSc in Sustainability and Environmental Modelling at the University of Dundee. With a solid academic foundation and a clear passion for rural and environmental issues in Scotland and beyond, she’s already proving to be a valuable member of the team.

Can you tell us a bit about your role and what it involves?

As a Graduate GIS Technician, I support the team by producing maps, conducting spatial data analysis and contributing to a wide range of projects involving land use management and utilities. My role is varied, and I enjoy the opportunity to apply technical tools like GIS to real-world challenges.

What attracted you to this opportunity at Bell Ingram?

I grew up in rural Dumfries and Galloway and have been interested in land management and farming from an early age. Bell Ingram’s strong links to rural land management, combined with its multidisciplinary approach, really appealed to me. The chance to gain hands-on experience while completing my postgraduate studies has been ideal. I also appreciate working on projects that have a tangible impact on the landscape and local communities.

What experience or areas of expertise do you bring to the team?

My academic background spans environmental regulation, geospatial analysis and sustainability principles. I’ve worked with GIS, R for statistical programming, remote sensing and have training in surveying, AutoCAD and construction science. I’m particularly interested in global land change, conservation and the intersection between environmental science and policy.

My path into this field has been a bit unconventional – after earning my undergraduate degree in 2010, I spent several years working in commercial kitchens and hospitality. That experience gave me a different perspective and a real appreciation for clear communication. I aim to present information in a way that’s accessible, even to someone without a technical background.

Growing up in a small rural community where my mum has been actively involved in local projects sparked my interest in sustainable rural and community development – something that’s been further reinforced through my studies.

What do you enjoy most about your work so far?

I really enjoy the practical side of the job – taking what I’ve learned in university and applying it to real projects. The variety keeps things interesting, and I value the collaborative nature of the team. There’s always something new to learn.

I’ve especially enjoyed working on everything from small title and sale plans to identifying ownership of large areas of land. And I love that I can bring my dog, Cleo, into the office – she’s definitely made herself at home under the radiator and has become part of the Bell Ingram family!

How do you spend your time outside of work?

Outside of work and my studies, I love spending time outdoors – whether that’s walking Cleo (pictured above), heading out on my bike or exploring Scotland’s natural landscapes. I’m still a keen cook after my time working in kitchens, and I also enjoy painting and reading nature books.