Steve's experience with conservation began at the age of nine as a junior volunteer with WWF (World Wildlife Fund) in the New Forest. From that point on, he developed a keen interest in conservation being in charge of the class Nature Table at the age of ten, and later became the school Pond Warden. He went on to study horticulture and agriculture at Moreton Morrell College in Warwickshire. By the time Steve reached twenty-one, life had taken another direction and a succesful career in forestry, agricultural and construction equipment followed, working in Japan, America, France, Belgium and the UK, alongside many famous names.

Still fascinated by wildlife and its habits, Steve took to studying deer, gaining both Level 1 and 2 Deer Management qualifictions, and both Advanced and Lowland Deer Management certificates at Cirencester Agricultural College, and went on to become a part-time instructor with the British Deer Society.

Steve's research into deer and their impacts on conservation led to coppicing, predominantly Ash, Hazel and Sweet chestnut. He went on to train further in forestry and arboriculture, gaining Royal Forestry Certification.

SWS realises the importance of rotaional coppicing and the benefits this brings to flora and fauna. Since forming the company, Steve has expanded into many aspects of conservation management, including coppice crafts, and can be seen at many woodfairs and craft shows during the summer months, practising the crafts to the general public from woods harvested during his conservation works.