aboriculture

  The Tree Care Industry Association Foundation (TCIAF) and STIHL Inc. are pleased to announce the winning schools of “Gear Up powered by STIHL,” an initiative supporting the future workforce by filling key equipment and training needs for students pursuing a career in arboriculture. The five winning colleges are: Allegany College of Maryland, Cumberland, MD Clackamas Community College, Oregon City, OR Huntley College of Agriculture, Pomona, CA University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH Southern University and A&M College, Baton Rouge, LA The winning colleges were awarded $5,000 to put toward the purchase of STIHL equipment such as chain saws, brushcutters, and personal protective apparel. To supplement the new gear, these schools will also receive a personalized training session from a STIHL Inc. representative. “Although we’re only in our second year of Gear Up, we are once again impressed by all submissions,” said Dave White, Tree Care Industry Association president and CEO. “We are confident that these funds will improve the quality of education and provide in-depth learning opportunities for students in these programs.” Colleges with arboriculture, forestry, horticulture, and other related programs were encouraged to apply. All submissions were evaluated on a variety of criteria, including clear plans for growth and development of the program; diversity in location and student mix; level of detail in the application; and financial need. “Investing in workforce development is critically important to the future of our industry, and STIHL Inc. is honored to partner with TCIAF to recognize and grow tree care educational programs ...