Ecology is a broad discipline with many opportunities for different career journeys. However, often times this is not the reality that students and post-docs are exposed to and/or trained for. While academic faculty positions are available, they are oftentimes limited in availability and scope, leading early career scientists in a never ending pursuit of post-doctoral positions until “planets align” the perfect right moment and job description. In this INSPIRE session we highlight the career journeys of a diverse group of people representing a variety of ecological professions. Speakers will talk about their career journeys with a focus on crucial steps and moments that influenced where they are today. These ecologists will INSPIRE you to think outside the box on your career goals and journey as an ecological scientist. Most importantly, you will be listening to the stories of a diverse set of ecologists. Ecology by its definition is broad and diverse, and the careers, journeys and people within this field should be equally so. Come to this session to learn what this looks like!