Wednesday (Pre-Conference), Nov. 6

TimeTitleViewSession DescriptionCEUsRoomNumber
9:00 AM - 11:00 AMStop the BleedView

Sponsored by North American Rescue

Speaker: Matt McCarty, Director of Public Safety and Instructor, North American Rescue

Learn how to address life threatening bleeding, how to apply a tourniquet, as well as how to wrap and pack a wound from the American College of Surgeons Stop the Bleed standards. Participants get a printable Certificate of Completion. Every attendee receives a full stocked PABC Kit as part of registration.

Cost:
$50 – TCIA Members
$65 – Non-Members 

Max attendance: 50 

2 CTSP & ISA34502
10:00 AM - 4:00 PMClimbing to the Top: Scaling Sales, Simplifying Processes and Unlocking Your Potential with TechnologyView

Sponsored by SingleOps

Learn from real business owners and arborists as they candidly share their own journeys integrating technology into their tree care businesses. Join our workshop to gain invaluable insights into how technology can be used in your business, from sales to the back office. In the morning session, we will cover marketing trends and strategy, and in the afternoon session we will share actionable tips on how to use industry-specific software (using SingleOps as the example) to streamline sales and production as well as key back-office processes. Plus, we’ll share success stories and practical advice to take your use of technology to the next level.

Morning session 10:00am – 12:00pm

Lunch included 12:00pm –1:00pm 

Optional afternoon workshop 1:00pm – 4:00pm 

Cost:
$150 – TCIA Members
$190 – Non-Members 

Max attendance: 50 

6 ISA33703
1:00 PM - 4:30 PMA300 Tree Care StandardsView

Facilitated by Sam Hill, Sam Hill Tree Care, Steve Hilbert, Asplundh Tree Experts, Wayne Dubin, Bartlett Tree Experts, Patrick Anderson, TCIA Corporate Representative, Dr Tom Smiley, Bartlett Tree Research Labs, and Bob Rouse, TCIA, and many additional A300 committee members.

Learn about important updates on current and upcoming ANSI A300 Tree Care standards committee activities, including some key developments tree care companies need to be aware of. Using ANSI A300 Tree Care standards as a basis of your tree care operations can:  

  • Improve efficiency at your company; 
  • Ensure your company provides proper tree care services
  • Promote good communication between your salesperson, the tree crew, and the client
  • Protect your company from costly service callbacks, claims, and lawsuits. 

It will also include a review of current issues and common work-proposal mistakes that can result in costly claims and lawsuits. The new ANSI A300-2023 standard offers some protection and work specification writing guidance that can mitigate these issues and help protect you and your company. Includes print copy of A300 Tree Care Standards ($119 value). 

PRICE:
TCIA Member Price: $165
Non-Member Price: $295 

Max attendance: 60

4 ISA34304
2:00 PM - 4:00 PMDriver & Fleet ManagementView

Sponsored by ArboRisk Insurance

Your employees are out driving your vehicles every day, yet many tree care companies do not take the proper steps to minimize risk. Having an effective Drive and Fleet Management Program is essential for the success of your business. During this workshop, you will learn about the appropriate written policies and procedures needed to setup the expectations for all employees to follow and how to develop driver training and fleet management programs. Attendees will be sent a Driver & Fleet Workbook to complete prior to the workshop.

Cost:

$150 – TCIA Members

$190 – Non-Members

Max attendance: 50

2 CTSP & ISA34506
8:30 AM - 4:30 PMPlant Health Care PathwaysView

This intermediate-level workshop focuses on essential skills for plant health care technicians, covering three key areas: 

Honing Diagnostic and Management Skills 

Mike Raupp, Ph.D and Paula Shrewsbury, Ph.D. lead a hands-on session on diagnosing and managing tree and shrub problems. Participants will learn to recognize damage categories, associate damage with insect and mite groups, practice diagnostic techniques, and identify management approaches. Attendees will work in teams with living and preserved samples to learn how to recognize five major categories of plant damage caused by key insects, mites, diseases, and abiotic factors. 

Understanding Tree Nutrition and Soil Management 

Zack Shier, BMCA, explores the relationship between urban trees and soil. Topics include diagnosing tree health issues, understanding nutrient products, and applying real-world solutions using the arborist’s toolbox. Attendees will gain a better understanding of the complete relationship between urban soils and tree nutrition. 

Pruning According to ANSI A300 

Andy Jones, CTSP, conducts an interactive session on structural tree pruning. Participants will practice pruning techniques on container trees, learn about ANSI A300 standards, and review case studies. Attendees will have an opportunity for hands-on pruning with hand pruners, saws, and/or mechanical pruners. 

Attendees will gain practical knowledge and hands-on experience in plant health care, enhancing their ability to diagnose issues and implement effective solutions for trees and shrubs. This comprehensive training will equip participants with the skills needed to succeed in a plant health care career.  

Includes continental breakfast and boxed lunch. 

Cost:

$295 – TCIA Members

$395 – Non-Members

Max attendance: 50

8 ISA, BCMA also available32401
1:00 PM - 5:00 PMWorkforce Development SummitView

Sponsored by Husqvarna

This important summit will provide industry-driven strategies and realistic resources that tree care businesses can implement to positively impact their recruitment and retention initiatives, leading to a safe, productive and empowering workplace for all employees.

Participants will gain and share knowledge about:

  • Recruitment trends in the industry
  • Apprenticeship
  • Credentialing programs
  • Best practices for recruitment and retention
  • Current TCIA workforce development initiatives supporting tree care companies.

Cost:

$150 – TCIA Members

$190 – Non-Members

Max attendance: 50

4 ISA34005

Main Stage Sessions

DayTitleViewTimeSession DescriptionCEUsRoomNumberhf:tax:ept_schedule_day
ThursdayMain Stage: Longevity Through AdversityView7:30 AM - 8:30 AM

Speaker: Brick Reilly, CTSP, Supervisor, Department of Public Works, Millburn Township, New Jersey

With his years of experience as a deaf climber, and his passion for continually working on the mind, body and spirit, Brick will bring a different view on how we can approach longevity in this industry.

1 CTSP & ISA308-30910thursday
FridayMain Stage: Methods & Techniques on Successful Tree TransplantingView8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Speaker: David Marks, Vice President, Environmental Design

Over the last 43 years, David has been responsible for almost every aspect of the tree transplanting business at one time or another. Environmental Design’s large tree transplanting projects include many large Estates, Zoos, Universities, Golf Courses, Municipalities, and Casinos. Environmental Design has transplanted thousands of large and giant trees, including many in the 30″ to 100″ diameter range. These massive trees have weighed up to ONE MILLION, SIX HUNDRED THOUSAND pounds, and have an impressive 99% survival rate.

1 ISA308-30945friday
SaturdayMain Stage: From Standards to Safety: Navigating the New Z133 with Industry LeadersView8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Speakers: Dr. John Ball, CTSP, Professor, South Dakota State University and Tim Walsh, CTSP, Townsend Company

Arboricultural operations are one of the highest risk activities in the United States. Tree workers have a fatality rate 15 to 30 times higher than the all-industry average. They also suffer from a disproportionally high severe nonfatal rate compared to other industries. One means of reducing these high rates is for tree workers to follow the Z133 Safety Requirements for Arboricultural Operations. The new revision of the Z is now completed and there are many important changes in the new standard. Tim Walsh, VP of Safety and Training with Townsend Company LLC and John Ball, Professor of Forestry, South Dakota State University, will lead you through these changes from electrical hazards to training requirements and cover the incidents that adherence to the standard will reduce or prevent.  

1 CTSP & ISA308-30989saturday

Thursday, Nov. 7

TimeTitleViewSession DescriptionCEUsRoomNumberTrackshf:tax:ept_schedule_track
7:30 AM - 8:30 AMMain Stage: Longevity Through AdversityView

Speaker: Brick Reilly, CTSP, Supervisor, Department of Public Works, Millburn Township, New Jersey

With his years of experience as a deaf climber, and his passion for continually working on the mind, body and spirit, Brick will bring a different view on how we can approach longevity in this industry.

1 CTSP & ISA308-30910Main Stage Sessions, Workforce Developmentmain-stage-sessions workforce-development
7:30 AM - 8:30 AMThe Financial Playbook for Tree Care ProfessionalsView

Speaker: Edward Morrow, Edward the Arborist, LLC

Learning about accounting may never be as exciting as tree care but understanding the “language of business” is crucial in maintaining a profitable service. This super-charged conversation helps tree care professionals understand the importance of bookkeeping, how to read financial statements, and use their numbers to improve operations—all without turning them into bean counters. Climb into simple, yet innovative, concepts to elevate your current business model, and create a more sustainable organization.

1 ISA32707Business Strategy, Education Sessionsbusiness-strategy education-sessions
7:30 AM- 8:30 AMHow to Get What You Want: Prescriptive PruningView

Speaker: Lindsey Purcell, LP Consulting Group

In order to improve the quality of tree care interventions, such as pruning, a process of evaluating tree conditions and preparing an objectives-based prescription before pruning a tree should be created.

This presentation will describe a method of how to communicate the tree conditions that concern the prescribing arborist, and which branches to prune to the arborists performing the work. Arborists can become more aware of how to communicate owner’s objectives, and which branches to prune to the production arborist performing the work. This new perspective will improve the quality and consistency of work creating better value for the tree owner and improved efficiencies in the crew.

1 ISA31608Education Sessions, Trainingeducation-sessions training
7:30 AM - 8:30 AMLanguage and Cultural Barriers: How to Establish Effective Communication Between Ground Personnel & Tree Canopy WorkersView

Speaker: Leo Roldan, The Davey Tree Expert Company. Presented in both English & Spanish.

We all know clear, concise communication is critical to safety on a worksite. But what happens when you have crews who speak English as a second language, or who speak no English at all? This is a prominent issue in the workforce, often only witnessed or experienced among the Spanish-speaking crews themselves. Common arboricultural terms are lost in translation and on occasion, the confusion can lead to injury or worse.

1 CTSP & ISA32109Education Sessions, Workforce Developmenteducation-sessions workforce-development
8:45 AM - 9:45 AMBest Practices for Crane ClimbersView

Speaker: Jon Foote, NJ Crane Expert

Crane climbing is a highly specialized and hazardous job that requires adherence to safety standards and best practices. In this session you will learn about the requirements and best practices for assisting a crane as a climber in tree removal operations.

Some of the key components of the presentation with include:

  1. PPE. Head to toe protection is required by OSHA and ANSI.
  2. Emergency planning. How to make an emergency plan and how to prepare when crew members leave the jobsite.
  3. JSA. How to perform a Job Site Assessment and who needs to be involved.
  4. Hazard Mitigation. Common jobsite hazards and what we can do about them.
  5. Communication. Effective communication methods and what we default to when electronics fail us.
  6. Documentation. What records we should be keeping for the job.
  7. Preflight inspection. Before being lifted, what we should look for with the crane and our own equipment.
  8. Equipment selection. Different options to suit your needs for the task at hand.
  9. Weight. How to calculate the weight of a tree section.
  10. Crane ball placement. How to find center of mass.
  11. Sling placement. Consideration for optimal sling placement and angles.
  12. Work positioning. How to stay comfortable and safe for the cutting.
  13. The cuts. Some options for different styles of cuts and when to use them.
  14. What next? How we can be effective in communicating with the operator and grounds man to safely get the crane pic detached on the ground.?
1 CTSP & ISA30111Education Sessions, Trainingeducation-sessions training
8:45 AM - 9:45 AMSafety DifferentlyView

Speaker: Tim Walsh, CTSP, The Townsend Company, LLC

In the evolving landscape of safety practices, the shift from traditional Safety I approaches to the contemporary Safety II, often referred to as Safety Differently, has been profound. Safety I, rooted in preventing incidents by focusing on workers’ behaviors, has undoubtedly shaped our safety culture. Over the years, it has significantly reduced recordable injuries, as evident in the downward trend of Total Recordable Injury Rate (TRIR) or Total Case Incident Rate (TCIR). However, despite these improvements, there has been a persistent challenge in reducing Serious Injuries and Fatalities (SIFs).

Safety I, being primarily reactive, tends to perceive workers as subjects needing fixing when incidents occur. The investigation process often places blame on the employee, assuming errors or intentional violations as the root cause. This approach, centered on negative outcomes, overlooks the actual dynamics of work in the field. Safety II, on the other hand, driven by Human Performance Improvement (HPI) or Human and Organizational Improvement (HOP), seeks to understand how work truly happens. It shifts the focus from preventing incidents to ensuring positive outcomes, utilizing workers’ knowledge and experience.

Safety II redefines safety by emphasizing the presence of capacity rather than the absence of negative outcomes. It aims to create resiliency, implement controls, and recognize that workers play a pivotal role in maintaining safety within a constantly changing, complex environment. Instead of scrutinizing individual behavior as the root cause, Safety II looks at the system in which the employee operates, acknowledging the importance of context in understanding incidents. Personal accountability is not disregarded but is examined within the broader organizational and environmental context.

In the aftermath of negative outcomes, Safety II advocates for a different approach to response through learning teams. These teams are instrumental in understanding the failures within the system, emphasizing a “what” failed rather than a “who” perspective. This shift is crucial in fostering a proactive and forward-looking safety culture. Safety II encourages a comprehensive understanding of incidents, recognizing that learning from failures is essential for continuous improvement.

In conclusion, the transition from Safety I to Safety II signifies a paradigm shift in safety practices. By focusing on the positive aspects of safety, understanding the complexities of work, and embracing a holistic approach to incidents, Safety II presents a transformative perspective for the utility vegetation management community. Implementing Safety Differently principles can lead to a more resilient and adaptive safety culture, ultimately enhancing the overall well-being of workers and the reliability of UVM operations.

1 CTSP & ISA31616Education Sessions, Safetyeducation-sessions safety
8:45 AM - 9:45 AMLeveraging New Power Management Tech to Keep Our Battery OPE in the FieldView

Speaker: Andy Jones, CTSP, Rooted Arbor Care

Due to the rapidity of legislative changes surrounding gas/battery outdoor power equipment (OPE), manufacturers are developing robust power management systems to ensure that their consumers are able to operate their OPE continuously without interruption from lack of charger battery packs. Many of these manufacturers are taking very different approaches to combating the runtime concerns, so we are likely to see several different “solutions” to this common concern. We continue to get feedback on this topic, and the power management concern is really the greatest barrier for many end users. This session will also give you the latest pros and cons of the various technologies available on the market.

1 ISA33715Education Sessions, Trainingeducation-sessions training
3:30 PM - 4:30 PMThe In’s and Out’s of Subcontracted Tree Care ProfessionalsView

Speaker: Eric Petersen, ArboRisk Insurance and Aaron Schauer, Gateway Technical College

Whether you’re a business owner or a subcontracted tree care professional, this presentation will provide an insight into the world of utilizing collaborative business relationships to benefit both parties. Eric and Aaron will present from their own perspectives and experiences about both sides of the contractor-subcontractor relationship.

1 ISA32739Business Strategy, Education Sessionsbusiness-strategy education-sessions
3:30 PM - 4:30 PMEstimating Strategies to Maximize ProfitsView

Speaker: Ash Connelly, SavATree

There’s more than one way to skin a cat, and maximizing profit is essential for business sustainability and growth. In an interactive presentation, you’ll gain creative and progressive estimating strategies that assure nothing is left on the table. We’ll explore the art of guessing…or, scientifically calculating—consumer behavior, setting prices, project costing, and dodging expectation pitfalls. Learn tree-mendously valuable insight on using readily available data, market trends, and resource management to enhance profitability while improving the customer experience. By the end of this session, participants will be equipped with the knowledge to implement these strategies effectively, ensuring their customer base multiplies in a competitive landscape.

1 ISA30138Education Sessions, Sales & Marketingeducation-sessions sales-marketing
3:30 PM - 4:30 PMArborist Safety UpdateView

Speaker: Mike Tilford, CTSP, SavATree

Join us for the annual Arborist Safety Update at TCI EXPO ’24, a highly anticipated session that brings the latest insights and developments in arborist safety. This workshop is a favorite among returning attendees, offering essential updates on best practices, industry standards, and new safety protocols. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to the field, this session will provide valuable information to help you stay safe and compliant in your daily work. Don’t miss out on this popular workshop that keeps arborists informed and prepared year after year!

1 CTSP & ISA31636Education Sessions, Safetyeducation-sessions safety
3:30 PM - 4:30 PMDemystifying DiagnosticsView

Speaker: Chelsi Abbott, Davey Tree Institute

Diagnosing plant problems is one of the most important skills an arborist can have in their tool kit, but it can be quite a daunting task. This is because plant issues are often being caused by any number of different insects, fungi, and environmental factors all occurring at once. Where does one even start? Diagnostics is a skill, but it is also a systematic process. This talk will aim to demystify the process to build a foundation that attendees can use to build upon and hone their own practice of diagnostics.

1 ISA32137Education Sessions, Trainingeducation-sessions training
4:30 PM – 6:30 PMWelcome Reception – Sponsored by VermeerView

FREE!

Welcome Reception at the TCI EXPO 2024, sponsored by Vermeer

Join us for a night of fun, networking and camaraderie!

FREE to all TCI EXPO attendees after the trade show floor closes on Thursday, November 7, in the Baltimore Convention Center.

Enjoy live music from the Whiskey Rebellion featuring a mix of bluegrass, jazz and rock.

Includes light refreshments and a cash bar!

43
4:00 PM – 4:30 PMPerforming for an Aerial Rescue in the Work ZoneView

SpeakersJon Foote & David O’Neill

Learn the crucial techniques for performing aerial rescues in work zones, prioritizing safety and efficiency. This 30-session offers hands-on demonstrations and expert insights to prepare you for any.

.5 CTSP & ISAThe Work Zone42The Work Zonework-zone
4:00 PM – 4:30 PMOpen Truss – 4:00 PM – 4:30 PMView

Discover the Meaning of Open Truss Here

TCI EXPOClimb41TCI EXPOClimbtci-expoclimb
3:30 PM – 4:00 PMTool Efficiency, Let’s Be ThriftyView

Speaker: Nicole Benjamin, Two Dog Crew

TCI EXPOClimb35TCI EXPOClimbtci-expoclimb
2:45 PM – 3:30 PM“Do You Even Lift?” Deploying Lifting Techniques & Hardware to Mitigate Dynamic ForcesView

Speaker: Andy Jones, CTSP

.75 CTSP & ISA CEUsTree Demo34Tree Demotree-demo-2
2:30 PM – 3:00 PMEmergency Response: Navigating Wires Under TensionView

SpeakerBill Burley

Learn critical techniques for safely handling emergency situations involving wires under tension. This session will equip you with the skills to quickly and effectively respond to high-risk scenarios, ensuring safety for yourself and others.

.5 CTSP & ISAThe Work Zone33The Work Zonework-zone
2:00 PM - 3:00 PMSafety Trivia Challenge: Learn, Play, and Win!View

Speakers: Irina Kochurov, Director, Credentialing Programs, Jarryd Beats, Manager, Quality Assurance of Training Programs, Sarah J. Martin, Manager, CTSP Program

Test your knowledge, compete with your peers, and have a chance to win exciting prizes. This meetup is a great opportunity to learn, play, and connect with others in a friendly, competitive environment.

Business Lounge32Safety, TCIA Business Loungesafety business-lounge-2
2:00 PM – 2:30 PMHuman Performance for Tree WorkersView

Speaker: Ed Carpenter, North American Training Solutions

Trade Show Floor | Booth #288731TCI EXPOGrowtci-expo-grow
2:00 PM – 2:30 PMOpen Truss – 2:00 PM – 2:30 PMView

Discover the Meaning of Open Truss Here

TCI EXPOClimb30TCI EXPOClimbtci-expoclimb
1:30 PM – 2:00 PMChainsaw for ChampionsView

Speaker: Mark Chisolm, CTSP

TCI EXPOClimb29TCI EXPOClimbtci-expoclimb
1:00 PM - 2:00 PMCTSP Peer Exchange: Boost Your Knowledge and Build ConnectionsView

Speaker: Irina Kochurov, Director, Credentialing Programs, Sarah J. Martin, Manager, CTSP Program

Recharge and reconnect! Join your CTSP peers to connect, ask questions and share stories about the CTSP Program and learn from other CTSPs including successes and challenges. TCIA’s Certified Treecare Safety Professional (CTSP) program is the only individual safety credentialing program in the industry and is designed to address several of the safety challenges that tree care companies face.

Business Lounge28Safety, TCIA Business Loungesafety business-lounge-2
1:00 PM – 1:30 PMCrane Use in the Work ZoneView

SpeakerHans Tielmann

Explore essential safety protocols and best practices for crane use in work zones, focusing on collaboration between operators and ground workers. Enhance your understanding of communication and coordination techniques to ensure a safe and efficient working environment.

.5 CTSP & ISAThe Work Zone27The Work Zonework-zone
12:30 PM – 1:30 PMOpen Truss – 12:30 PM – 1:30 PMView

Discover the Meaning of Open Truss Here

TCI EXPOClimb26TCI EXPOClimbtci-expoclimb
12:30 PM – 1:15 PMPatient Assessment for Tree CrewsView

Speaker: Steve Connally, Adaptable Aerial Solutions

.75 CTSP & ISA CEUsTree Demo25Tree Demotree-demo-2
12:00 PM – 12:30 PMKnots for NutsView

Speaker: Blake Duval, CTSP, Chippers, a Davey Company

TCI EXPOClimb24TCI EXPOClimbtci-expoclimb
11:30 AM – 12:00 PMSafety, What Did You Forget?View

Speaker: Bob Mead, Mead Tree & Turf

Trade Show Floor | Booth #288723TCI EXPOGrowtci-expo-grow
11:00 AM - 11:30 AMCrew Leader Qualification: How it’s Changed & How it Can Change Your CareerView

Speaker: Virginia Gregoire, Director, Educational Strategy and Development, TCIA, Robin Kennedy, Course Developer, TCIA

Explore the Crew Leader Qualification program and see how it can benefit both your business and your team. Join us for an insightful Q&A session where we’ll look at the critical role of crew leaders in the arboricultural industry.  The Crew Leader Qualification is an advanced employer credentialing program that can help lower injuries, increase productivity and save money.

Build on your leadership skills and Crew Leader Qualification, you prove that you have learned enhanced leadership skills necessary to do the job and do it well.

Business Lounge22TCIA Business Lounge, Trainingbusiness-lounge-2 training
11:00 AM – 11:30 AMWork Zone MitigationView

SpeakersHans Tielmann & Zach Richards

Discover effective strategies to minimize risks and enhance safety in work zones. Learn practical techniques for identifying and mitigating potential hazards to ensure a secure working environment.

.5 CTSP & ISAThe Work Zone21The Work Zonework-zone
11:00 AM – 12:00 PMOpen Truss – 11:00 AM – 12:00 PMView

Discover the Meaning of Open Truss Here

TCI EXPOClimb20TCI EXPOClimbtci-expoclimb
10:30 AM – 11:15 AMHow Does One Choose What to Use & How to Climb a Tree?View

Speaker: Jeff Inman, CTSP, Truetimber Arborists

.75 CTSP & ISATree Demo19Tree Demotree-demo-2
10:30 AM – 11:00 AMWork Positioning While RiggingView

Speaker: Jared Abrojena, The Academy

.5 CTSP & ISA CEUsTCI EXPOClimb18TCI EXPOClimbtci-expoclimb
10:00 AM - 10:30 AMInside TCI Magazine: A Guide to Writing for TCI MagazineView

Speakers: Don Staruk, Editor, Tree Care Industry Magazine, Susan DiPietro, TCI Magazine Managing Editor/Website Editor, Dennis Schaefer, Art Director, TCI Magazine

TCI Magazine editorial staff will be on hand to discuss how you can write for and contribute to TCI Magazine and the support we provide to new writers. Want to have your company featured in the magazine? Learn about opportunities for member companies to have staff or the company profiled or the work the company does be featured.

Business Lounge17Sales & Marketing, TCIA Business Loungesales-marketing business-lounge-2
8:45 AM - 9:45 AMBreaking Barriers: Facilitating Growth through DEI Programs & AdvocacyView

Speaker: Panel Moderated by Ash Connelly, SavATree

Join an exciting interactive panel discussion to discover a multitude of DEI proactive solutions. Learn from industry experts how to facilitate employee connectivity, amplify initiatives and create an inclusive working environment. In a productive and open dialogue, this session will provide opportunities for attendees to pose real life experiences and gain actionable strategies to break traditional barriers.

*All-Access Pass required to attend.

1 ISA CEU340-34112Women in Tree Carewomen-in-tree-care
8:30 AM - 9:00 AMMaximize Your Sales: A Deep Dive into TCIA’s Exclusive Tools and StrategiesView

Speaker: Bob Rouse, Senior Vice President, Business Support & ANSI A300 Secretary

Unlock your sales potential with TCIA’s exclusive member resources!  Get a tour of TCIA’s extensive suite of sales tools and strategies to help you grow your business. Learn how to leverage free resources, including sales templates, checklists, and more, to effectively boost your sales and marketing efforts. Discover how these valuable tools can drive business growth and enhance your success in the tree care industry.

Business Lounge11Sales & Marketing, TCIA Business Loungesales-marketing business-lounge-2

Friday, Nov. 8

TimeTitleViewSession DescriptionCEUsRoomNumberTrackshf:tax:ept_schedule_track
8:00 AM - 9:00 AMMain Stage: Methods & Techniques on Successful Tree TransplantingView

Speaker: David Marks, Vice President, Environmental Design

Over the last 43 years, David has been responsible for almost every aspect of the tree transplanting business at one time or another. Environmental Design’s large tree transplanting projects include many large Estates, Zoos, Universities, Golf Courses, Municipalities, and Casinos. Environmental Design has transplanted thousands of large and giant trees, including many in the 30″ to 100″ diameter range. These massive trees have weighed up to ONE MILLION, SIX HUNDRED THOUSAND pounds, and have an impressive 99% survival rate.

1 ISA308-30945Main Stage Sessions, Trainingmain-stage-sessions training
8:00 AM - 9:00 AMThinking Beyond Your Field of ExpertiseView

Speaker: Brian Pope, CTSP, Duke Energy

This talk will focus on how to utilize out of industry resources to grow your residential tree care business to fill your schedule. You’ll learn methods of capitalizing on economies of scale and maximizing mobilizations utilizing time efficient and cost-effective strategic marketing to eliminate the need for EDDM or paid lead generation.

1 ISA32747Education Sessions, Sales & Marketingeducation-sessions sales-marketing
8:00 AM - 9:00 AMRemote Sales: Strategies for Success and Mistakes to AvoidView

Speaker: Jeff Wraley, Groundwork Sales Software

You can buy nearly everything virtually. But what about tree and plant healthcare services? There are certainly reasons to not provide pricing without seeing the issue first-hand. But what if you could reduce drive time, eliminate low-quality leads from your pipeline, and even sell jobs 100% virtually?

  • Join us to discuss ways we’ve seen tree service companies adopt a more virtual-first strategy without sacrificing customer service or profitability. The speakers will cover: Misconceptions about virtual/remote sales
  • The cultural expectations that support a shift to virtual sales
  • Common mistakes with virtual/remote sales
  • Three keys to success in a virtual/remote sales strategy
1 ISA30146Education Sessions, Sales & Marketingeducation-sessions sales-marketing
8:00 AM - 9:00 AMCultivating Success: A Guide to Launching Plant Health Care ProgramsView

Speaker: Heather Dirksen, Canopy Service Partners, LLC

Discover how to elevate your tree care company with a presentation on launching a Plant Health Care (PHC) service line. Heather Dirksen, head of PHC growth at Canopy Service Partners will provide a comprehensive talk tailored for tree care professionals looking to expand their services and meet the growing demand for holistic plant health solutions. You’ll gain insights into the benefits of integrating PHC, assessing your company’s readiness, and developing a strategic plan. Learn how to build and train a skilled team, market your new services effectively, and monitor performance for continuous improvement. Heather will highlight the importance of eco-friendliness, focusing on soil health, and adopting a prescriptive approach to plant care. This presentation is perfect for those ready to transform their tree care company and unlock the potential of Plant Health Care services.

1 ISA32144Education Sessions, Trainingeducation-sessions training
9:30 AM - 10:30 AMDeepening Diagnostics: An Overview of Common Pests, Pathogens and Other Plant PuzzlementsView

Speaker: Alison Herrell, Community Assistance Forester, Oregon Department of Forestry

As we all know, the best way to preserve tree canopy is to preserve the trees that we already have. One of the major challenges arborists faces is being able to diagnose what problems our trees have and match them with the correct management techniques. In this session, we will work to deepen the diagnostic skills that we have gained in other sessions or from our experience on the field. We will review common pest, pathogens, and abiotic disorders, and discuss effective management options of these issues. The goal is to leave with some confidence to make plant healthcare recommendations that are realistic and efficacious to the clients that we serve.

1 ISA32753Education Sessions, Trainingeducation-sessions training
9:30 AM - 10:30 AMANSI A300 Tree Care Standards UpdateView

Speaker: Sam Hill, Chair, A300 Committee/Sam Hill Tree Care and TCIA ANSI A300 committee members

Using ANSI A300 Tree Care standards as a basis of your tree care operations can:

  • Improve efficiency at your company
  • Ensure your company provides proper tree care services
  • Promote good communication between your salesperson, the tree crew, and the client
  • Protect your company from costly service call backs, claims, and lawsuits.

This session will give you an update on current and upcoming ANSI A300 Tree Care standards committee activities, outline some key developments tree care companies need to be aware of as well as some lessons learned from previous years of experience using A300 standards.

This workshop includes a review of current issues and common work proposal mistakes that can result in costly claims and lawsuits.  The new ANSI A300-2023 standard offers some protection and work specification writing guidance that can mitigate these issues and help protect you and your company.

1 ISA31652Advocacy & Regulatory Compliance, Education Sessionsadvocacy-regulatory-compliance education-sessions
9:30 AM - 10:30 AMHard Conversations and Changing the Conversation on SafetyView

Speaker: Jeff Inman, CTSP, Truetimber Arborists

We speak on standards as an industry and how we need to follow the shalls and mind the shoulds. Oftentimes, we find ourselves in a situation, especially when teaching, training and trying to enact change, where we interact with folks who aren’t all about following these standards. How do you interact with those individuals? How do you enter into a conversation about what you’re seeing vs what you know is written down? OSHA and the Z133 are a lot for folks to digest and often people throw their hands up saying, “I’ve done it for years and never had an issue. Why do I have to change just because that book says so? Because the safety person says so? I’m fine! Leave me be and let me work!”

This presentation dives into the heart of where our standards are born as well as how to interact with people to promote change in an organization.

1 CTSP & ISA32154Education Sessions, Safetyeducation-sessions safety
9:30 AM - 10:30 AMWhen in Doubt, Rig it OutView

Speaker: Zachary Richards, Contract Climber & Trainer

Between flashy gear options, and social media clips of wild rigging operations, we can get wrapped up in the complexities of rigging, and forget how simple it can actually be. Oftentimes when approaching tight quarters tree removals, It’s easy to become overwhelmed and resort to the trusty “cut and chuck.” Join Zach for a discussion on advanced rigging, simplifying solutions to complex situations, and why looking for opportunities to rig could lead to an overall better jobsite culture.

1 CTSP & ISA340-34155Education Sessions, Trainingeducation-sessions training
11:00 AM - 12:00 PMDiscovering Forestry Podcast: The Future of PHC – Advances in Technology and PracticesView

Sponsored by Arborjet | Ecologel

Speaker: Joe Aiken (ISA Certified Arborist) and Korey Lofy (ISA Certified Arborist), Arborjet | Ecologel

Brought back by popular demand, Joe and Korey will host a live episode of their award-winning podcast, Discovery Forestry, to discuss the past, present, and future state of technology and practices in the plant health care industry. With over 60 years of combined experience in the field, Joe and Korey will discuss where PHC is today, what the newest advances are, and where things will be in the future. Between new technology, clean energy, legislative restrictions, labor challenges, and new research, there’s plenty of topics to explore!

There will be time at the end of the session for questions and answers.

1 ISA30165Education Sessions, Sales & Marketingeducation-sessions sales-marketing
11:00 AM - 12:00 PMSustaining Optimal Performance in Tree Care Using the “Ready to Work” ModelView

Speaker: Bill Owens, Monarch Tree Services, Director of Arbor Operations, CTSP

How can arborists sustain optimal performance throughout their careers by using the ready to work model? In this session, we will define optimal performance, and relate the concept to longevity in tree care. We will discuss the ready to work model and how you can use it to meet the demands of tree care in a sustainable way.

Using the ready to work model helps you optimize your physical capacity, mental capability, and emotional agility. We will discuss these three dimensions of performance and provide you with specific tools and techniques you and your team can use to optimize performance in each of these three dimensions. Applying these tools will support you in finding new and interesting ways to sustain optimal performance in your career as an arborist. You will leave the session inspired, and ready to work, with new tools to manage your physical, mental, and emotional energy.

1 ISA32764Education Sessions, Safetyeducation-sessions safety
11:00 AM - 12:00 PMFrom Expert to Educator: Developing Trainers Who InspireView

Speaker: Korey Conry, CTSP, Mountain F. Enterprises, Inc.

Training trainers to effectively use PowerPoint involves a systematic approach to ensure they can confidently deliver engaging presentations. Here’s an outline of the process:

  1. Need Assessment
  2. Content Development
  3. Training Delivery
  4. Slide Design and Visuals
  5. Presentation Techniques
  6. Feedback and Evaluation
  7. Ongoing Support and Resources

Remember, training the trainers is an iterative process. Continuously assess their progress, address any emerging challenges, and adapt the training program as needed to ensure sustained improvement and effectiveness.

1 CTSP & ISA32162Education Sessions, Trainingeducation-sessions training
11:00 AM - 12:00 PMModern Tree Nutrition ProductsView

Speaker: Zach Shier, Joseph Tree Service

The world of arboriculture is always changing and as the industry moves away from some of the old methods of treating for tree nutrient deficiencies, new products and methods have emerged. The increased use of organic based products, emphasis on foliar and soil testing, and improved methods for amending soil and understanding tree deficiencies can be challenging to navigate. This presentation will help make sense of why organic products are becoming more popular and help explain the different types. We’ll go over modern methods and why some of the traditional methods may be less than optimal as well as explaining some of the comparisons between types of fertilization and other products in the Arborist’s toolbox.

1 ISA33763Education Sessions, Trainingeducation-sessions training
2:30 PM - 3:30 PMCultivating Company Culture & RetentionView

Speaker: Bethany Kemppainen, Guardian Tree Experts

People are the most valuable part of any organization. Employee turnover can be high in the arboriculture industry, leading to wasted time, money and energy. This presentation will focus on company culture being the “secret sauce” to retaining top talent. Good culture doesn’t mean you have to force people into a mold or act against their nature to fit in at your company. It’s an intentional focus on providing care and compassion, which benefits everyone in the long run. So how do you create a collaborative culture that inspires people to stay and grow with your company? We will explore that, ways to improve culture, and why you should examine yours more closely.

1 ISA32177Education Sessions, Workforce Developmenteducation-sessions workforce-development
2:30 PM - 3:30 PMPlant Health Care: A Holistic ApproachView

Speaker: Aaron Dickinson, Arborcology, LLC

In an era of instant gratification, fast food, drive-up windows and same day delivery, society has come to expect instant results. Have we, as arborists, become a by-product of society expectations and when discussing tree care, do we prescribe the “silver bullet” treatment first? Our communication with the client requires the aspect of cultural practices that can remedy the plant’s issue, with the assistance of a chemical control and lead to reduce applications.

Many companies are growing their plant health care divisions with the expectation of generating 30% or more of the revenue from PHC. I have seen companies prescribing a chemical approach to the plant care problem and downplaying the necessity to cultural care. Are we being true stewards of the environment when we encourage treatments annually and forego the practices of solving the problem?

This presentation will explore some common PHC problems that frequently have repeated applications that benefit from cultural approaches, or the consideration of different chemical approaches combined with the cultural practices.

1 ISA32780Education Sessions, Trainingeducation-sessions training
2:30 PM - 3:30 PMNever Waste a Good Crisis: Improving Safety After a Major IncidentView

Speaker: Craig Bachmann, Tree133 LLC, Lead Arborist & Founder, CTSP

Learn valuable lessons from a recent climber fall and resulting state-level OSHA investigation. Attendees will receive practical guidance to improve work planning, team communication, PPE inspection, skills development and documentation. With these steps, your company can build a

stronger safety culture and more effectively prevent on-the-job incidents.

In August 2022, Tree133 experienced a climber fall resulting in a severe injury. For a well-respected company owned by a recognized trainer, this was an unthinkable event that challenged everything we believed about ourselves and our culture. This presentation will share valuable lessons learned from that incident and the resulting state-level OSHA investigation. Attendees will learn practical steps to improve work planning, team communication, PPE inspection, skills development and documentation. By sharing this experience, Tree133 can help other companies build a strong culture of safety and prevent on-the-job incidents.

1 CTSP & ISA CEU31679Education Sessions, Safetyeducation-sessions safety
2:30 PM - 3:30 PMFeeling Forces: Tree Work Forces Training with a Practical and Engaging MethodView

Speaker: Emmett Shutts, Jr., CTSP, QCL, and Corey Shepard, CTSP, The Davey Tree Expert Company

Arborist trainers will agree to teach rigging and climbing forces is technical and the terminology can be challenging for learners. In January of 2019, we started a journey of refining a hands on approach to teaching the forces we create while working with trees. This talk will share how we have developed our training method. Attendees will leave with techniques and ideas they can use to make for fun and engaging rigging training.

1 CTSP & ISA340-34178Education Sessions, Trainingeducation-sessions training
4:00 PM - 5:00 PMImmunity Unleashed: The Science of Induced ResistanceView

Speaker: Glynn Percival, Ph. D., Bartlett Tree Research Laboratory

During their lifetime, trees planted within urban landscapes are susceptible to pathogenic fungi and bacteria that, if uncontrolled, can result in tree decline and eventually death. Presently, conventional management relies heavily on repeat application of insecticides and/or fungicides applied as foliar sprays, trunk injection or soil drenches. Build-up of pathogen resistance coupled with environmental concerns means alternative methods of pest and disease management are warranted.

Trees possess a range of active defense systems that can “switched on” prior to infection by a plant pathogen by the application of specific organic compounds. This concept of boosting a tree’s own inherent immunity is known as induced resistance (IR). The IR response is critical and can reflect the difference between coping and succumbing to necrotizing pests and pathogens. This presentation will discuss the range of inducing agents available for professionals involved in tree management as well as their effectiveness, time of application and strategies for use within urban landscapes.

1 ISA32184Education Sessions, Trainingeducation-sessions training
4:00 PM - 5:00 PMLeveraging AI: Powerful Tools to Take Your Tree Service to New HeightsView

Speaker: Monica Hemingway, Tree Care Marketing Solutions and Jonathan Mast, Whitebeard Strategies

Artificial Intelligence (AI) can help tree service companies streamline operations, improve customer service, and make data-driven decisions for a more successful business. But most people are still stuck thinking about AI along the lines of “How to use ChatGPT to write 100 social media posts in five minutes!”.
 
This presentation goes well beyond the usual “Gee whiz, isn’t this AI stuff fun?” content. Instead, we focus on the AI-powered tools and processes that affect a company’s bottom line. We take the mystery out of how to use these powerful platforms, reduce the cost and complexity that can be associated with AI, and generate high-quality data and outputs that you can use in your business. Plus, we throw in a few fun things you can do with AI that you probably haven’t heard about before. If you want to know what AI can do to help your business, this presentation is for you!

1 ISA31685Education Sessions, Sales & Marketingeducation-sessions sales-marketing
4:00 PM - 5:00 PMCSI for BUGS: Honing Your Diagnostic SkillsView

Speaker: Mike Raupp, Ph. D., University of Maryland

Factors of the abiotic, non-living world and those of the biotic, living world act individually or in concert to imperil the health and beauty of woody plants in landscapes. Designing a therapy to restore plant health requires an accurate diagnosis of what the problem is and elucidation of factors contributing to the problem. Using a variety of case studies of native and non-native pests, this interactive presentation will present a methodology for diagnosing causes of tree decline and provide solutions to improve plant health and appearance. While the emphasis will be on problems caused by insect pests, problems associated with pathogens and abiotic factors will also be discussed.  

1 ISA30186Education Sessions, Trainingeducation-sessions training
4:30 PM - 6:00 PMNetworking Reception, sponsored by SavATreeView

Join TCIA’s Women in Tree Care for a networking reception in the Camden Street Lobby. This event is open to all and includes light refreshments and a cash bar.

**Separate registration required.

Camden Street Lobby87
3:30 PM – 4:00 PMMentality of Tree CareView

Speaker: Hans Tielmann III, CTSP, Noble Oak Safety & Training

Trade Show Floor | Booth #288783TCI EXPOGrowtci-expo-grow
3:00 PM – 4:00 PMOpen Truss – 3:00 PM – 4:00 PMView

Discover the Meaning of Open Truss Here

TCI EXPOClimb82TCI EXPOClimbtci-expoclimb
3:00 PM – 3:30 PMPerforming for an Aerial Rescue in the Work ZoneView

SpeakersJon Foote & David O’Neill

Learn the crucial techniques for performing aerial rescues in work zones, prioritizing safety and efficiency. This 30-session offers hands-on demonstrations and expert insights to prepare you for any.

.5 CTSP & ISAThe Work Zone81The Work Zonework-zone
2:30 PM – 3:15 PMWhen the Tree Doesn’t Provide, Use a Highline to Get Yourself TiedView

Speaker: Ryan Torcicollo, CTSP, SavATree

.75 CTSP & ISA CEUsTree Demo76Tree Demotree-demo-2
2:30 PM – 3:00 PMThe Use of Friction SaversView

Speaker: James Earhart

.5 CTSP & ISA CEUsTCI EXPOClimb75TCI EXPOClimbtci-expoclimb
1:45 PM – 2:15 PMThe Power of WomynView

Speakers: Bear LeVangie and Melissa LeVangie Ingersoll, Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop

Trade Show Floor | Booth #288774TCI EXPOGrowtci-expo-grow
1:30 PM – 2:30 PMOpen Truss – 1:30 PM – 2:30 PMView

Discover the Meaning of Open Truss Here

TCI EXPOClimb73TCI EXPOClimbtci-expoclimb
1:30 PM – 2:00 PMEmergency Response: Navigating Wires Under TensionView

SpeakerBill Burley

Learn critical techniques for safely handling emergency situations involving wires under tension. This session will equip you with the skills to quickly and effectively respond to high-risk scenarios, ensuring safety for yourself and others.

.5 CTSP & ISAThe Work Zone72The Work Zonework-zone
1:00 PM– 1:30 PMTypes of Felling Cuts at HeightView

Speaker: Jared Abrojena, The Academy

.5 CTSP & ISA CEUsTCI EXPOClimb70TCI EXPOClimbtci-expoclimb
12:45 PM – 1:30 PMUnderstanding SRS & Mechanical Devices in an Aerial RescueView

Speaker: Tyler Zuniga, North American Training Solutions

.75 CTSP & ISA CEUsTree Demo68Tree Demotree-demo-2
11:30 AM – 1:00 PMOpen Truss – 11:30 AM – 1:00 PMView

Discover the Meaning of Open Truss Here

TCI EXPOClimb67TCI EXPOClimbtci-expoclimb
11:30 AM – 12:30 PMIndustry Conversation – 100 Years of HistoryView

Speakers: David White, TCIA and Caitlyn Pollihan, ISA; Moderated by Paul Putman, Tree Research and Education Endowment (TREE) Fund

Trade Show Floor | Booth #288766TCI EXPOGrowtci-expo-grow
11:00 AM – 11:30 AMIntegrating Competition Climbing into Your Daily PracticesView

Speaker: Stephanie Litenburg, TreeLife Arborists

.5 CTSP & ISA CEUsTCI EXPOClimb61TCI EXPOClimbtci-expoclimb
10:00 AM – 10:30 AMPost Installation EstablishmentView

Speaker: Andy Jones, CTSP, Rooted Arbor Care

.5 CTSP & ISA CEUsTCI EXPOClimb57TCI EXPOClimbtci-expoclimb
10:30 AM - 11:15 AMStudent Career Day SessionView

Speaker: Mark Chisolm, CTSP, Aspen Tree Expert Co.

.75 CTSP & ISA CEUsTree Demo60Tree Demotree-demo-2
10:30 AM – 11:00 AMCrane Use in the Work ZoneView

SpeakerHans Tielmann

Explore essential safety protocols and best practices for crane use in work zones, focusing on collaboration between operators and ground workers. Enhance your understanding of communication and coordination techniques to ensure a safe and efficient working environment.

.5 CTSP & ISAThe Work Zone59The Work Zonework-zone
10:00 AM – 10:30 AMYoga for ArboristsView

Amy Tetreault, TCIA

Trade Show Floor | Booth #288756TCI EXPOGrowtci-expo-grow
9:30 AM – 10:00 AMWork Zone MitigationView

SpeakersHans Tielmann & Zach Richards

Discover effective strategies to minimize risks and enhance safety in work zones. Learn practical techniques for identifying and mitigating potential hazards to ensure a secure working environment.

.5 CTSP & ISAThe Work Zone51The Work Zonework-zone
9:00 AM – 10:00 AMOpen Truss – 9:00 AM – 10:00 AMView

Discover the Meaning of Open Truss Here

TCI EXPOClimb50TCI EXPOClimbtci-expoclimb
9:15 AM – 9:45 AMThe S-A-F-E-T-Y DanceView

Speaker: Bear LeVangie and Melissa LeVangie Ingersoll, Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop

.75 CTSP & ISA CEUsTree Demo49Tree Demotree-demo-2
5:30 PM - 6:30 PMPeer-to-Peer Reception (Invitation-only)View

This private reception is an exclusive gathering for individuals who are interested in or currently part of our peer-to-peer groups-a dynamic, self-governing collective of forward-thinking company leaders. This event offers a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals who are committed to sharing their insights, expertise, and industry experiences. Engage in meaningful conversations, exchange strategies, and collaborate on best practices aimed at driving personal, professional, and business growth. Whether you’re a seasoned peer group member or exploring group membership, this reception promises valuable networking and the chance to contribute to a community of business leaders in the tree care industry.

Business Lounge88TCIA Business Loungebusiness-lounge-2
1:00 PM - 2:00 PMIndustry Pulse: Latest Findings on Compensation, DEI, and Financial Performance from TCIA’s Benchmarking and Compensation SurveyView

Speaker: Bob Rouse, Senior Vice President, Business Support & ANSI A300 Secretary

Gain valuable insights from our latest benchmarking and compensation survey! Discover new industry trends and financial performance insights, along with key findings on wage and benefit statistics, DEI benchmarks, and pay transparency data.

Business Lounge71Business Strategy, TCIA Business Loungebusiness-strategy business-lounge-2
1:00 PM - 1:30 PMAdvocacy in Action: Key Updates on Regulations and Policy for ArboristsView

Speaker: David F. White, CAE, President & CEO, Peter Gerstenberger, Senior Vice President, Industry Support and a representative from Ulman Public Policy

Learn about and inquire about current issues and advocacy efforts of TCIA around OSHA Tree Care Operations Rulemaking, OSHA standard for arborists, immigration reform, funding for urban and community forestry projects and much more. Learn how you can make your voice heard through the TCIA advocacy and regulatory initiatives.

Business Lounge69Advocacy & Regulatory Compliance, TCIA Business Loungeadvocacy-regulatory-compliance business-lounge-2
10:30 AM - 11:00 AMAccreditation Meet Up: Connect, Share, and GrowView

Speaker: Bob Rouse, Senior Vice President, Business Support & ANSI A300 Secretary

Connect and collaborate with fellow TCIA Accredited and aspiring companies enrolled in the TCIA Accreditation Program! Share insights, best practices, and challenges as you navigate the accreditation process together. Let’s learn and grow as a community.

Business Lounge58Business Strategy, TCIA Business Loungebusiness-strategy business-lounge-2
8:30 AM - 9:00 AMTCIA Town Hall: Our VisionView

Speaker: David F. White, CAE, President & CEO, TCIA, Amy Tetreault, Executive Vice President, TCIA

Join Dave and Amy for a TCIA Town Hall focused on the direction of YOUR trade association. Dave will paint the big picture of where TCIA is going. Amy will help connect the dots between the vision of TCIA and what that means for you – our members – and your day-to-day. This is your chance to discuss the vision of TCIA and ask Dave and Amy questions!

Business Lounge48Business Strategy, TCIA Business Loungebusiness-strategy business-lounge-2

Saturday, Nov. 9

TimeTitleViewSession DescriptionCEUsRoomNumberTrackshf:tax:ept_schedule_track
9:30 AM - 10:30 AMProfessionalism in Tree Care ProjectView

Speaker: Basil Thomson, Ulman Public Policy and Bob Rouse, Tree Care Industry Association

Describing and marketing professionalism in tree care for contracting agencies is an ongoing problem.  TCIA, ISA, and other green industry partners are banding together to provide a solution. This session will review our solutions, including some valuable, new resources.

The allocation of $1.5 billion in funds for the United States Forest Service (USFS) to distribute as grants for tree planting and maintenance, career pathways into arboriculture and other related projects revealed significant gaps in comprehension regarding the tree care profession. Grantees and other agencies and clients lack the understanding and resources to contract for tree work with professional companies and to verify that completed work meets industry standards. Furthermore, grantees seeking to provide and prepare workers for career opportunities in the tree care industry lack access to and knowledge of credentials and training programs. TCIA is banding together ISA and other green industry groups to lead the development of a green industry clearing house that provides the base knowledge and resources that grant recipients, such as pass-through grantees, municipalities, non-profits, and community-based organizations, and clients need to recognize and contract for professional tree services and provide new career pathways into arboriculture. 

The project will include:

  • A Tree Care Industry Resource Hub where contracting agencies can find resources that help them understand what it means to be a professional tree care company, the related credentials that professional tree care companies and professional arborists hold, and the resources needed to help them contract with those professionals.
  • An outreach program to encourage IRA grantees, municipalities, government agencies, commercial companies and other contractors to use these resources in order to contract with professional tree care companies and arborists.
1 ISA32194Advocacy & Regulatory Compliance, Education Sessionsadvocacy-regulatory-compliance education-sessions
8:00 AM - 9:00 AMMain Stage: From Standards to Safety: Navigating the New Z133 with Industry LeadersView

Speakers: Dr. John Ball, CTSP, Professor, South Dakota State University and Tim Walsh, CTSP, Townsend Company

Arboricultural operations are one of the highest risk activities in the United States. Tree workers have a fatality rate 15 to 30 times higher than the all-industry average. They also suffer from a disproportionally high severe nonfatal rate compared to other industries. One means of reducing these high rates is for tree workers to follow the Z133 Safety Requirements for Arboricultural Operations. The new revision of the Z is now completed and there are many important changes in the new standard. Tim Walsh, VP of Safety and Training with Townsend Company LLC and John Ball, Professor of Forestry, South Dakota State University, will lead you through these changes from electrical hazards to training requirements and cover the incidents that adherence to the standard will reduce or prevent.  

1 CTSP & ISA308-30989Advocacy & Regulatory Compliance, Main Stage Sessions, Safetyadvocacy-regulatory-compliance main-stage-sessions safety
9:30 AM - 10:30 AMBusiness Ethics in ArboricultureView

Speaker: Aaron Dickinson, Arborcology, LLC

Ethics is not a term that we use on a daily basis, and when we do describe an ethical/ unethical action, we have an understanding of what it means, but when asked what IS ethics, the definition tends to elude us, but yet, we somehow understand it. So, what does Business Ethics mean and how does that affect our business? Our profitability, the company reputation, the company culture? or the work force we attract?

Understanding Six Principles of Business Ethics can help guide our businesses to a better work force that works together for a greater purpose, a greater client experience, a higher quality work product and greater profits.

1 ISA32793Business Strategy, Education Sessionsbusiness-strategy education-sessions
11:00 AM - 12:00 PMBeing a True ProfessionalView

Speaker: Mark Chisholm, CTSP, Aspen Tree Expert Company

Growing up in the tree care industry has given Mark a unique understanding as to where the industry was, where it is, and where it is going. This talk will be a fun walk down memory lane where Mark shares pictures, videos and insights about what it takes to be a true professional and how make sure you are representing yourself and our profession in the best possible light.

1 CTSP & ISA316102Education Sessions, Workforce Developmenteducation-sessions workforce-development
11:00 AM - 12:00 PMThe Normalization of RiskView

Speaker: Tyler Lyon, CTSP, and Chris Sprague, CTSP, Bartlett Tree Experts

In 1986, millions witnessed the Challenger space shuttle disaster that tragically killed seven astronauts. Searching for an explanation, sociologist Diane Vaughn developed the concept of normalization of deviance, the gradual drift towards risk-acceptance and unsafe behaviors that set the stage for the Challenger explosion. Drawing from Vaughn and other safety research, Tyler and Chris will expound upon the concepts of normalization of deviance and drift to help understand risk in our behaviors and decisions in tree care at individual, group, and organization levels. Tyler and Chris will challenge attendees to reevaluate the way they perceive and manage safety, while providing tools and resources from this framework to help avoid these pitfalls.

1 CTSP & ISA321104Education Sessions, Safetyeducation-sessions safety
11:00 AM - 12:00 PMStorm Hazard AssessmentView

Speaker: David O’Neill, Contractor

Discuss the hazard assessment process for storm damage scenarios, with reference to applicable regulatory standards. We will then delve deeper into these concepts in a demonstration using a Jekko track mounted crane and a Platform Basket Spider lift to highlight the use of various techniques and pieces of equipment in order to handle these scenarios safely and in compliance.

1 CTSP & ISA340-341103Education Sessions, Trainingeducation-sessions training
12:30 PM – 1:00 PMPerforming for an Aerial Rescue in the Work ZoneView

SpeakersJon Foote & David O’Neill

Learn the crucial techniques for performing aerial rescues in work zones, prioritizing safety and efficiency. This 30-session offers hands-on demonstrations and expert insights to prepare you for any.

.5 CTSP & ISAThe Work Zone108The Work Zonework-zone
12:15 PM – 12:45 PMRight Gear for Right StyleView

Speaker: Travis Vickerson, Vertical Supply Group

Trade Show Floor | Booth #2887107TCI EXPOGrowtci-expo-grow
12:00 PM – 1:00 PMOpen Truss – 12:00 PM – 1:00 PMView

Discover the Meaning of Open Truss Here

TCI EXPOClimb106TCI EXPOClimbtci-expoclimb
11:15 AM – 11:45 AMWhat the $%#&: When Things Go Wrong in Rigging: Part 2View

Speaker: Mike Tilford, CTSP & Ryan Torcicollo, CTSP

.5 CTSP & ISATCI EXPOClimb105TCI EXPOClimbtci-expoclimb
11:00 AM – 11:45 AMElectrical Safety Tools & Applications for Tree WorkersView

Speaker: Ed Carpenter, North American Training Solutions

.75 CTSP & ISA CEUsTree Demo101Tree Demotree-demo-2
10:30 AM – 11:00 AMEmergency Response: Navigating Wires Under TensionView

SpeakerBill Burley

Learn critical techniques for safely handling emergency situations involving wires under tension. This session will equip you with the skills to quickly and effectively respond to high-risk scenarios, ensuring safety for yourself and others.

.5 CTSP & ISAThe Work Zone99The Work Zonework-zone
10:15 AM – 10:45 AMWhat the $%#&: When Things Go Wrong in Rigging: Part 1View

Speakers: Mike Tilford, CTSP, & Ryan Torcicollo, CTSP, SavATree

Trade Show Floor | Booth #288798TCI EXPOGrowtci-expo-grow
10:00 AM – 11:30 AMOpen Truss – 10:00 AM – 11:30 AMView

Discover the Meaning of Open Truss Here

TCI EXPOClimb97TCI EXPOClimbtci-expoclimb
9:30 AM – 10:00 AMPruning EfficienciesView

Speaker: Jared Abrojena, The Academy

.5 CTSP & ISA CEUsTCI EXPOClimb92TCI EXPOClimbtci-expoclimb
9:15 AM – 10:00 AMCan You be Rescued? Solutions to Improve Climber SafetyView

Speaker: Craig Bachmann, CTSP, Tree133, LLC

.75 CTSP & ISA CEUsTree Demo91Tree Demotree-demo-2
11:00 AM - 11:30 AMBoost Recruitment and Retention with TCIA’s Arborist Apprenticeship ProgramView

Speaker: Erin Demers, Manager, Workforce Recruitment & Retention,

Discover how TCIA’s Arborist Apprenticeship Training Program can impact employee recruitment and retention. Learn more about how this program ensures apprentices are eligible for the ISA Certified Arborist Exam!

Business Lounge100TCIA Business Lounge, Workforce Developmentbusiness-lounge-2 workforce-development
10:00 AM - 11:30 AMLeveraging Your Fellow Members with TCIA Networking OpportunitiesView

Speaker: Bob Rouse, Senior Vice President, Business Support & ANSI A300 Secretary, Erin Demers, Manager, Workforce Recruitment & Retention,

Discover how networking with fellow business owners can reduce stress, streamline operations, and boost your bottom line. TCIA provides events, mentorship programs, and peer-to-peer opportunities to connect you with a supportive community and support your business growth.

Business Lounge96Business Strategy, TCIA Business Loungebusiness-strategy business-lounge-2
10:00 AM - 10:30 AMFree Training Opportunities: Maximizing ASTI Resources and GrantsView

Speaker: Erin Demers, Manager, Workforce Recruitment & Retention, TCIA

Learn about quality safety training resources and grant opportunities available through TCIAF’s Arborist Safety Training Institute (ASTI). Find out how you can access free training, and education!

Business Lounge95TCIA Business Lounge, Workforce Developmentbusiness-lounge-2 workforce-development
8:30 AM - 9:00 AMThe Search Is On: Finding Info to Build Your Business & Increase Your KnowledgeView

Speaker: Don Staruk, Editor, TCI Magazine, Susan DiPietro, TCI Magazine Managing Editor/Website Editor, Dennis Schaefer, Art Director, TCI Magazine

Ever feel lost, confused or underwhelmed while searching for answers to arboricultural questions? Whether you’re shopping for a grapple crane or trying to figure out how to incorporate PHC into your business, TCI Magazine’s website offers you a powerful “search engine” with the mapping and fresh content you need to grow your business or improve your arboricultural knowledge. In this interactive pop-up session, TCI staff will demonstrate how to harness the power of the TCI Magazine website to find the tree care information you are looking for. They will use the popular topic of starting a PHC business as their example.

Business Lounge90Sales & Marketing, TCIA Business Loungesales-marketing business-lounge-2

Wednesday (Pre-Conference), Nov. 6

TimeTitleViewSession DescriptionCEUsRoomNumber
9:00 AM - 11:00 AMStop the BleedView

Sponsored by North American Rescue

Speaker: Matt McCarty, Director of Public Safety and Instructor, North American Rescue

Learn how to address life threatening bleeding, how to apply a tourniquet, as well as how to wrap and pack a wound from the American College of Surgeons Stop the Bleed standards. Participants get a printable Certificate of Completion. Every attendee receives a full stocked PABC Kit as part of registration.

Cost:
$50 – TCIA Members
$65 – Non-Members 

Max attendance: 50 

2 CTSP & ISA34502
10:00 AM - 4:00 PMClimbing to the Top: Scaling Sales, Simplifying Processes and Unlocking Your Potential with TechnologyView

Sponsored by SingleOps

Learn from real business owners and arborists as they candidly share their own journeys integrating technology into their tree care businesses. Join our workshop to gain invaluable insights into how technology can be used in your business, from sales to the back office. In the morning session, we will cover marketing trends and strategy, and in the afternoon session we will share actionable tips on how to use industry-specific software (using SingleOps as the example) to streamline sales and production as well as key back-office processes. Plus, we’ll share success stories and practical advice to take your use of technology to the next level.

Morning session 10:00am – 12:00pm

Lunch included 12:00pm –1:00pm 

Optional afternoon workshop 1:00pm – 4:00pm 

Cost:
$150 – TCIA Members
$190 – Non-Members 

Max attendance: 50 

6 ISA33703
1:00 PM - 4:30 PMA300 Tree Care StandardsView

Facilitated by Sam Hill, Sam Hill Tree Care, Steve Hilbert, Asplundh Tree Experts, Wayne Dubin, Bartlett Tree Experts, Patrick Anderson, TCIA Corporate Representative, Dr Tom Smiley, Bartlett Tree Research Labs, and Bob Rouse, TCIA, and many additional A300 committee members.

Learn about important updates on current and upcoming ANSI A300 Tree Care standards committee activities, including some key developments tree care companies need to be aware of. Using ANSI A300 Tree Care standards as a basis of your tree care operations can:  

  • Improve efficiency at your company; 
  • Ensure your company provides proper tree care services
  • Promote good communication between your salesperson, the tree crew, and the client
  • Protect your company from costly service callbacks, claims, and lawsuits. 

It will also include a review of current issues and common work-proposal mistakes that can result in costly claims and lawsuits. The new ANSI A300-2023 standard offers some protection and work specification writing guidance that can mitigate these issues and help protect you and your company. Includes print copy of A300 Tree Care Standards ($119 value). 

PRICE:
TCIA Member Price: $165
Non-Member Price: $295 

Max attendance: 60

4 ISA34304
2:00 PM - 4:00 PMDriver & Fleet ManagementView

Sponsored by ArboRisk Insurance

Your employees are out driving your vehicles every day, yet many tree care companies do not take the proper steps to minimize risk. Having an effective Drive and Fleet Management Program is essential for the success of your business. During this workshop, you will learn about the appropriate written policies and procedures needed to setup the expectations for all employees to follow and how to develop driver training and fleet management programs. Attendees will be sent a Driver & Fleet Workbook to complete prior to the workshop.

Cost:

$150 – TCIA Members

$190 – Non-Members

Max attendance: 50

2 CTSP & ISA34506
8:30 AM - 4:30 PMPlant Health Care PathwaysView

This intermediate-level workshop focuses on essential skills for plant health care technicians, covering three key areas: 

Honing Diagnostic and Management Skills 

Mike Raupp, Ph.D and Paula Shrewsbury, Ph.D. lead a hands-on session on diagnosing and managing tree and shrub problems. Participants will learn to recognize damage categories, associate damage with insect and mite groups, practice diagnostic techniques, and identify management approaches. Attendees will work in teams with living and preserved samples to learn how to recognize five major categories of plant damage caused by key insects, mites, diseases, and abiotic factors. 

Understanding Tree Nutrition and Soil Management 

Zack Shier, BMCA, explores the relationship between urban trees and soil. Topics include diagnosing tree health issues, understanding nutrient products, and applying real-world solutions using the arborist’s toolbox. Attendees will gain a better understanding of the complete relationship between urban soils and tree nutrition. 

Pruning According to ANSI A300 

Andy Jones, CTSP, conducts an interactive session on structural tree pruning. Participants will practice pruning techniques on container trees, learn about ANSI A300 standards, and review case studies. Attendees will have an opportunity for hands-on pruning with hand pruners, saws, and/or mechanical pruners. 

Attendees will gain practical knowledge and hands-on experience in plant health care, enhancing their ability to diagnose issues and implement effective solutions for trees and shrubs. This comprehensive training will equip participants with the skills needed to succeed in a plant health care career.  

Includes continental breakfast and boxed lunch. 

Cost:

$295 – TCIA Members

$395 – Non-Members

Max attendance: 50

8 ISA, BCMA also available32401
1:00 PM - 5:00 PMWorkforce Development SummitView

Sponsored by Husqvarna

This important summit will provide industry-driven strategies and realistic resources that tree care businesses can implement to positively impact their recruitment and retention initiatives, leading to a safe, productive and empowering workplace for all employees.

Participants will gain and share knowledge about:

  • Recruitment trends in the industry
  • Apprenticeship
  • Credentialing programs
  • Best practices for recruitment and retention
  • Current TCIA workforce development initiatives supporting tree care companies.

Cost:

$150 – TCIA Members

$190 – Non-Members

Max attendance: 50

4 ISA34005

Main Stage Sessions

DayTitleViewTimeSession DescriptionCEUsRoomNumberhf:tax:ept_schedule_day
ThursdayMain Stage: Longevity Through AdversityView7:30 AM - 8:30 AM

Speaker: Brick Reilly, CTSP, Supervisor, Department of Public Works, Millburn Township, New Jersey

With his years of experience as a deaf climber, and his passion for continually working on the mind, body and spirit, Brick will bring a different view on how we can approach longevity in this industry.

1 CTSP & ISA308-30910thursday
FridayMain Stage: Methods & Techniques on Successful Tree TransplantingView8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Speaker: David Marks, Vice President, Environmental Design

Over the last 43 years, David has been responsible for almost every aspect of the tree transplanting business at one time or another. Environmental Design’s large tree transplanting projects include many large Estates, Zoos, Universities, Golf Courses, Municipalities, and Casinos. Environmental Design has transplanted thousands of large and giant trees, including many in the 30″ to 100″ diameter range. These massive trees have weighed up to ONE MILLION, SIX HUNDRED THOUSAND pounds, and have an impressive 99% survival rate.

1 ISA308-30945friday
SaturdayMain Stage: From Standards to Safety: Navigating the New Z133 with Industry LeadersView8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

Speakers: Dr. John Ball, CTSP, Professor, South Dakota State University and Tim Walsh, CTSP, Townsend Company

Arboricultural operations are one of the highest risk activities in the United States. Tree workers have a fatality rate 15 to 30 times higher than the all-industry average. They also suffer from a disproportionally high severe nonfatal rate compared to other industries. One means of reducing these high rates is for tree workers to follow the Z133 Safety Requirements for Arboricultural Operations. The new revision of the Z is now completed and there are many important changes in the new standard. Tim Walsh, VP of Safety and Training with Townsend Company LLC and John Ball, Professor of Forestry, South Dakota State University, will lead you through these changes from electrical hazards to training requirements and cover the incidents that adherence to the standard will reduce or prevent.  

1 CTSP & ISA308-30989saturday

Thursday, Nov. 7

TimeRoomTitleViewSession DescriptionCEUsNumberTrackshf:tax:ept_schedule_track
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM308-309Main Stage: Longevity Through AdversityView

Speaker: Brick Reilly, CTSP, Supervisor, Department of Public Works, Millburn Township, New Jersey

With his years of experience as a deaf climber, and his passion for continually working on the mind, body and spirit, Brick will bring a different view on how we can approach longevity in this industry.

1 CTSP & ISA10Main Stage Sessions, Workforce Developmentmain-stage-sessions workforce-development
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM327The Financial Playbook for Tree Care ProfessionalsView

Speaker: Edward Morrow, Edward the Arborist, LLC

Learning about accounting may never be as exciting as tree care but understanding the “language of business” is crucial in maintaining a profitable service. This super-charged conversation helps tree care professionals understand the importance of bookkeeping, how to read financial statements, and use their numbers to improve operations—all without turning them into bean counters. Climb into simple, yet innovative, concepts to elevate your current business model, and create a more sustainable organization.

1 ISA07Business Strategy, Education Sessionsbusiness-strategy education-sessions
7:30 AM- 8:30 AM316How to Get What You Want: Prescriptive PruningView

Speaker: Lindsey Purcell, LP Consulting Group

In order to improve the quality of tree care interventions, such as pruning, a process of evaluating tree conditions and preparing an objectives-based prescription before pruning a tree should be created.

This presentation will describe a method of how to communicate the tree conditions that concern the prescribing arborist, and which branches to prune to the arborists performing the work. Arborists can become more aware of how to communicate owner’s objectives, and which branches to prune to the production arborist performing the work. This new perspective will improve the quality and consistency of work creating better value for the tree owner and improved efficiencies in the crew.

1 ISA08Education Sessions, Trainingeducation-sessions training
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM321Language and Cultural Barriers: How to Establish Effective Communication Between Ground Personnel & Tree Canopy WorkersView

Speaker: Leo Roldan, The Davey Tree Expert Company. Presented in both English & Spanish.

We all know clear, concise communication is critical to safety on a worksite. But what happens when you have crews who speak English as a second language, or who speak no English at all? This is a prominent issue in the workforce, often only witnessed or experienced among the Spanish-speaking crews themselves. Common arboricultural terms are lost in translation and on occasion, the confusion can lead to injury or worse.

1 CTSP & ISA09Education Sessions, Workforce Developmenteducation-sessions workforce-development
8:45 AM - 9:45 AM301Best Practices for Crane ClimbersView

Speaker: Jon Foote, NJ Crane Expert

Crane climbing is a highly specialized and hazardous job that requires adherence to safety standards and best practices. In this session you will learn about the requirements and best practices for assisting a crane as a climber in tree removal operations.

Some of the key components of the presentation with include:

  1. PPE. Head to toe protection is required by OSHA and ANSI.
  2. Emergency planning. How to make an emergency plan and how to prepare when crew members leave the jobsite.
  3. JSA. How to perform a Job Site Assessment and who needs to be involved.
  4. Hazard Mitigation. Common jobsite hazards and what we can do about them.
  5. Communication. Effective communication methods and what we default to when electronics fail us.
  6. Documentation. What records we should be keeping for the job.
  7. Preflight inspection. Before being lifted, what we should look for with the crane and our own equipment.
  8. Equipment selection. Different options to suit your needs for the task at hand.
  9. Weight. How to calculate the weight of a tree section.
  10. Crane ball placement. How to find center of mass.
  11. Sling placement. Consideration for optimal sling placement and angles.
  12. Work positioning. How to stay comfortable and safe for the cutting.
  13. The cuts. Some options for different styles of cuts and when to use them.
  14. What next? How we can be effective in communicating with the operator and grounds man to safely get the crane pic detached on the ground.?
1 CTSP & ISA11Education Sessions, Trainingeducation-sessions training
8:45 AM - 9:45 AM316Safety DifferentlyView

Speaker: Tim Walsh, CTSP, The Townsend Company, LLC

In the evolving landscape of safety practices, the shift from traditional Safety I approaches to the contemporary Safety II, often referred to as Safety Differently, has been profound. Safety I, rooted in preventing incidents by focusing on workers’ behaviors, has undoubtedly shaped our safety culture. Over the years, it has significantly reduced recordable injuries, as evident in the downward trend of Total Recordable Injury Rate (TRIR) or Total Case Incident Rate (TCIR). However, despite these improvements, there has been a persistent challenge in reducing Serious Injuries and Fatalities (SIFs).

Safety I, being primarily reactive, tends to perceive workers as subjects needing fixing when incidents occur. The investigation process often places blame on the employee, assuming errors or intentional violations as the root cause. This approach, centered on negative outcomes, overlooks the actual dynamics of work in the field. Safety II, on the other hand, driven by Human Performance Improvement (HPI) or Human and Organizational Improvement (HOP), seeks to understand how work truly happens. It shifts the focus from preventing incidents to ensuring positive outcomes, utilizing workers’ knowledge and experience.

Safety II redefines safety by emphasizing the presence of capacity rather than the absence of negative outcomes. It aims to create resiliency, implement controls, and recognize that workers play a pivotal role in maintaining safety within a constantly changing, complex environment. Instead of scrutinizing individual behavior as the root cause, Safety II looks at the system in which the employee operates, acknowledging the importance of context in understanding incidents. Personal accountability is not disregarded but is examined within the broader organizational and environmental context.

In the aftermath of negative outcomes, Safety II advocates for a different approach to response through learning teams. These teams are instrumental in understanding the failures within the system, emphasizing a “what” failed rather than a “who” perspective. This shift is crucial in fostering a proactive and forward-looking safety culture. Safety II encourages a comprehensive understanding of incidents, recognizing that learning from failures is essential for continuous improvement.

In conclusion, the transition from Safety I to Safety II signifies a paradigm shift in safety practices. By focusing on the positive aspects of safety, understanding the complexities of work, and embracing a holistic approach to incidents, Safety II presents a transformative perspective for the utility vegetation management community. Implementing Safety Differently principles can lead to a more resilient and adaptive safety culture, ultimately enhancing the overall well-being of workers and the reliability of UVM operations.

1 CTSP & ISA16Education Sessions, Safetyeducation-sessions safety
8:45 AM - 9:45 AM337Leveraging New Power Management Tech to Keep Our Battery OPE in the FieldView

Speaker: Andy Jones, CTSP, Rooted Arbor Care

Due to the rapidity of legislative changes surrounding gas/battery outdoor power equipment (OPE), manufacturers are developing robust power management systems to ensure that their consumers are able to operate their OPE continuously without interruption from lack of charger battery packs. Many of these manufacturers are taking very different approaches to combating the runtime concerns, so we are likely to see several different “solutions” to this common concern. We continue to get feedback on this topic, and the power management concern is really the greatest barrier for many end users. This session will also give you the latest pros and cons of the various technologies available on the market.

1 ISA15Education Sessions, Trainingeducation-sessions training
3:30 PM - 4:30 PM327The In’s and Out’s of Subcontracted Tree Care ProfessionalsView

Speaker: Eric Petersen, ArboRisk Insurance and Aaron Schauer, Gateway Technical College

Whether you’re a business owner or a subcontracted tree care professional, this presentation will provide an insight into the world of utilizing collaborative business relationships to benefit both parties. Eric and Aaron will present from their own perspectives and experiences about both sides of the contractor-subcontractor relationship.

1 ISA39Business Strategy, Education Sessionsbusiness-strategy education-sessions
3:30 PM - 4:30 PM301Estimating Strategies to Maximize ProfitsView

Speaker: Ash Connelly, SavATree

There’s more than one way to skin a cat, and maximizing profit is essential for business sustainability and growth. In an interactive presentation, you’ll gain creative and progressive estimating strategies that assure nothing is left on the table. We’ll explore the art of guessing…or, scientifically calculating—consumer behavior, setting prices, project costing, and dodging expectation pitfalls. Learn tree-mendously valuable insight on using readily available data, market trends, and resource management to enhance profitability while improving the customer experience. By the end of this session, participants will be equipped with the knowledge to implement these strategies effectively, ensuring their customer base multiplies in a competitive landscape.

1 ISA38Education Sessions, Sales & Marketingeducation-sessions sales-marketing
3:30 PM - 4:30 PM316Arborist Safety UpdateView

Speaker: Mike Tilford, CTSP, SavATree

Join us for the annual Arborist Safety Update at TCI EXPO ’24, a highly anticipated session that brings the latest insights and developments in arborist safety. This workshop is a favorite among returning attendees, offering essential updates on best practices, industry standards, and new safety protocols. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to the field, this session will provide valuable information to help you stay safe and compliant in your daily work. Don’t miss out on this popular workshop that keeps arborists informed and prepared year after year!

1 CTSP & ISA36Education Sessions, Safetyeducation-sessions safety
3:30 PM - 4:30 PM321Demystifying DiagnosticsView

Speaker: Chelsi Abbott, Davey Tree Institute

Diagnosing plant problems is one of the most important skills an arborist can have in their tool kit, but it can be quite a daunting task. This is because plant issues are often being caused by any number of different insects, fungi, and environmental factors all occurring at once. Where does one even start? Diagnostics is a skill, but it is also a systematic process. This talk will aim to demystify the process to build a foundation that attendees can use to build upon and hone their own practice of diagnostics.

1 ISA37Education Sessions, Trainingeducation-sessions training
4:30 PM – 6:30 PMWelcome Reception – Sponsored by VermeerView

FREE!

Welcome Reception at the TCI EXPO 2024, sponsored by Vermeer

Join us for a night of fun, networking and camaraderie!

FREE to all TCI EXPO attendees after the trade show floor closes on Thursday, November 7, in the Baltimore Convention Center.

Enjoy live music from the Whiskey Rebellion featuring a mix of bluegrass, jazz and rock.

Includes light refreshments and a cash bar!

43
4:00 PM – 4:30 PMThe Work ZonePerforming for an Aerial Rescue in the Work ZoneView

SpeakersJon Foote & David O’Neill

Learn the crucial techniques for performing aerial rescues in work zones, prioritizing safety and efficiency. This 30-session offers hands-on demonstrations and expert insights to prepare you for any.

.5 CTSP & ISA42The Work Zonework-zone
4:00 PM – 4:30 PMTCI EXPOClimbOpen Truss – 4:00 PM – 4:30 PMView

Discover the Meaning of Open Truss Here

41TCI EXPOClimbtci-expoclimb
3:30 PM – 4:00 PMTCI EXPOClimbTool Efficiency, Let’s Be ThriftyView

Speaker: Nicole Benjamin, Two Dog Crew

35TCI EXPOClimbtci-expoclimb
2:45 PM – 3:30 PMTree Demo“Do You Even Lift?” Deploying Lifting Techniques & Hardware to Mitigate Dynamic ForcesView

Speaker: Andy Jones, CTSP

.75 CTSP & ISA CEUs34Tree Demotree-demo-2
2:30 PM – 3:00 PMThe Work ZoneEmergency Response: Navigating Wires Under TensionView

SpeakerBill Burley

Learn critical techniques for safely handling emergency situations involving wires under tension. This session will equip you with the skills to quickly and effectively respond to high-risk scenarios, ensuring safety for yourself and others.

.5 CTSP & ISA33The Work Zonework-zone
2:00 PM - 3:00 PMBusiness LoungeSafety Trivia Challenge: Learn, Play, and Win!View

Speakers: Irina Kochurov, Director, Credentialing Programs, Jarryd Beats, Manager, Quality Assurance of Training Programs, Sarah J. Martin, Manager, CTSP Program

Test your knowledge, compete with your peers, and have a chance to win exciting prizes. This meetup is a great opportunity to learn, play, and connect with others in a friendly, competitive environment.

32Safety, TCIA Business Loungesafety business-lounge-2
2:00 PM – 2:30 PMTrade Show Floor | Booth #2887Human Performance for Tree WorkersView

Speaker: Ed Carpenter, North American Training Solutions

31TCI EXPOGrowtci-expo-grow
2:00 PM – 2:30 PMTCI EXPOClimbOpen Truss – 2:00 PM – 2:30 PMView

Discover the Meaning of Open Truss Here

30TCI EXPOClimbtci-expoclimb
1:30 PM – 2:00 PMTCI EXPOClimbChainsaw for ChampionsView

Speaker: Mark Chisolm, CTSP

29TCI EXPOClimbtci-expoclimb
1:00 PM - 2:00 PMBusiness LoungeCTSP Peer Exchange: Boost Your Knowledge and Build ConnectionsView

Speaker: Irina Kochurov, Director, Credentialing Programs, Sarah J. Martin, Manager, CTSP Program

Recharge and reconnect! Join your CTSP peers to connect, ask questions and share stories about the CTSP Program and learn from other CTSPs including successes and challenges. TCIA’s Certified Treecare Safety Professional (CTSP) program is the only individual safety credentialing program in the industry and is designed to address several of the safety challenges that tree care companies face.

28Safety, TCIA Business Loungesafety business-lounge-2
1:00 PM – 1:30 PMThe Work ZoneCrane Use in the Work ZoneView

SpeakerHans Tielmann

Explore essential safety protocols and best practices for crane use in work zones, focusing on collaboration between operators and ground workers. Enhance your understanding of communication and coordination techniques to ensure a safe and efficient working environment.

.5 CTSP & ISA27The Work Zonework-zone
12:30 PM – 1:30 PMTCI EXPOClimbOpen Truss – 12:30 PM – 1:30 PMView

Discover the Meaning of Open Truss Here

26TCI EXPOClimbtci-expoclimb
12:30 PM – 1:15 PMTree DemoPatient Assessment for Tree CrewsView

Speaker: Steve Connally, Adaptable Aerial Solutions

.75 CTSP & ISA CEUs25Tree Demotree-demo-2
12:00 PM – 12:30 PMTCI EXPOClimbKnots for NutsView

Speaker: Blake Duval, CTSP, Chippers, a Davey Company

24TCI EXPOClimbtci-expoclimb
11:30 AM – 12:00 PMTrade Show Floor | Booth #2887Safety, What Did You Forget?View

Speaker: Bob Mead, Mead Tree & Turf

23TCI EXPOGrowtci-expo-grow
11:00 AM - 11:30 AMBusiness LoungeCrew Leader Qualification: How it’s Changed & How it Can Change Your CareerView

Speaker: Virginia Gregoire, Director, Educational Strategy and Development, TCIA, Robin Kennedy, Course Developer, TCIA

Explore the Crew Leader Qualification program and see how it can benefit both your business and your team. Join us for an insightful Q&A session where we’ll look at the critical role of crew leaders in the arboricultural industry.  The Crew Leader Qualification is an advanced employer credentialing program that can help lower injuries, increase productivity and save money.

Build on your leadership skills and Crew Leader Qualification, you prove that you have learned enhanced leadership skills necessary to do the job and do it well.

22TCIA Business Lounge, Trainingbusiness-lounge-2 training
11:00 AM – 11:30 AMThe Work ZoneWork Zone MitigationView

SpeakersHans Tielmann & Zach Richards

Discover effective strategies to minimize risks and enhance safety in work zones. Learn practical techniques for identifying and mitigating potential hazards to ensure a secure working environment.

.5 CTSP & ISA21The Work Zonework-zone
11:00 AM – 12:00 PMTCI EXPOClimbOpen Truss – 11:00 AM – 12:00 PMView

Discover the Meaning of Open Truss Here

20TCI EXPOClimbtci-expoclimb
10:30 AM – 11:15 AMTree DemoHow Does One Choose What to Use & How to Climb a Tree?View

Speaker: Jeff Inman, CTSP, Truetimber Arborists

.75 CTSP & ISA19Tree Demotree-demo-2
10:30 AM – 11:00 AMTCI EXPOClimbWork Positioning While RiggingView

Speaker: Jared Abrojena, The Academy

.5 CTSP & ISA CEUs18TCI EXPOClimbtci-expoclimb
10:00 AM - 10:30 AMBusiness LoungeInside TCI Magazine: A Guide to Writing for TCI MagazineView

Speakers: Don Staruk, Editor, Tree Care Industry Magazine, Susan DiPietro, TCI Magazine Managing Editor/Website Editor, Dennis Schaefer, Art Director, TCI Magazine

TCI Magazine editorial staff will be on hand to discuss how you can write for and contribute to TCI Magazine and the support we provide to new writers. Want to have your company featured in the magazine? Learn about opportunities for member companies to have staff or the company profiled or the work the company does be featured.

17Sales & Marketing, TCIA Business Loungesales-marketing business-lounge-2
8:45 AM - 9:45 AM340-341Breaking Barriers: Facilitating Growth through DEI Programs & AdvocacyView

Speaker: Panel Moderated by Ash Connelly, SavATree

Join an exciting interactive panel discussion to discover a multitude of DEI proactive solutions. Learn from industry experts how to facilitate employee connectivity, amplify initiatives and create an inclusive working environment. In a productive and open dialogue, this session will provide opportunities for attendees to pose real life experiences and gain actionable strategies to break traditional barriers.

*All-Access Pass required to attend.

1 ISA CEU12Women in Tree Carewomen-in-tree-care
8:30 AM - 9:00 AMBusiness LoungeMaximize Your Sales: A Deep Dive into TCIA’s Exclusive Tools and StrategiesView

Speaker: Bob Rouse, Senior Vice President, Business Support & ANSI A300 Secretary

Unlock your sales potential with TCIA’s exclusive member resources!  Get a tour of TCIA’s extensive suite of sales tools and strategies to help you grow your business. Learn how to leverage free resources, including sales templates, checklists, and more, to effectively boost your sales and marketing efforts. Discover how these valuable tools can drive business growth and enhance your success in the tree care industry.

11Sales & Marketing, TCIA Business Loungesales-marketing business-lounge-2

Friday, Nov. 8

TimeTitleViewSession DescriptionCEUsRoomNumberTrackshf:tax:ept_schedule_track
8:00 AM - 9:00 AMMain Stage: Methods & Techniques on Successful Tree TransplantingView

Speaker: David Marks, Vice President, Environmental Design

Over the last 43 years, David has been responsible for almost every aspect of the tree transplanting business at one time or another. Environmental Design’s large tree transplanting projects include many large Estates, Zoos, Universities, Golf Courses, Municipalities, and Casinos. Environmental Design has transplanted thousands of large and giant trees, including many in the 30″ to 100″ diameter range. These massive trees have weighed up to ONE MILLION, SIX HUNDRED THOUSAND pounds, and have an impressive 99% survival rate.

1 ISA308-30945Main Stage Sessions, Trainingmain-stage-sessions training
8:00 AM - 9:00 AMThinking Beyond Your Field of ExpertiseView

Speaker: Brian Pope, CTSP, Duke Energy

This talk will focus on how to utilize out of industry resources to grow your residential tree care business to fill your schedule. You’ll learn methods of capitalizing on economies of scale and maximizing mobilizations utilizing time efficient and cost-effective strategic marketing to eliminate the need for EDDM or paid lead generation.

1 ISA32747Education Sessions, Sales & Marketingeducation-sessions sales-marketing
8:00 AM - 9:00 AMRemote Sales: Strategies for Success and Mistakes to AvoidView

Speaker: Jeff Wraley, Groundwork Sales Software

You can buy nearly everything virtually. But what about tree and plant healthcare services? There are certainly reasons to not provide pricing without seeing the issue first-hand. But what if you could reduce drive time, eliminate low-quality leads from your pipeline, and even sell jobs 100% virtually?

  • Join us to discuss ways we’ve seen tree service companies adopt a more virtual-first strategy without sacrificing customer service or profitability. The speakers will cover: Misconceptions about virtual/remote sales
  • The cultural expectations that support a shift to virtual sales
  • Common mistakes with virtual/remote sales
  • Three keys to success in a virtual/remote sales strategy
1 ISA30146Education Sessions, Sales & Marketingeducation-sessions sales-marketing
8:00 AM - 9:00 AMCultivating Success: A Guide to Launching Plant Health Care ProgramsView

Speaker: Heather Dirksen, Canopy Service Partners, LLC

Discover how to elevate your tree care company with a presentation on launching a Plant Health Care (PHC) service line. Heather Dirksen, head of PHC growth at Canopy Service Partners will provide a comprehensive talk tailored for tree care professionals looking to expand their services and meet the growing demand for holistic plant health solutions. You’ll gain insights into the benefits of integrating PHC, assessing your company’s readiness, and developing a strategic plan. Learn how to build and train a skilled team, market your new services effectively, and monitor performance for continuous improvement. Heather will highlight the importance of eco-friendliness, focusing on soil health, and adopting a prescriptive approach to plant care. This presentation is perfect for those ready to transform their tree care company and unlock the potential of Plant Health Care services.

1 ISA32144Education Sessions, Trainingeducation-sessions training
9:30 AM - 10:30 AMDeepening Diagnostics: An Overview of Common Pests, Pathogens and Other Plant PuzzlementsView

Speaker: Alison Herrell, Community Assistance Forester, Oregon Department of Forestry

As we all know, the best way to preserve tree canopy is to preserve the trees that we already have. One of the major challenges arborists faces is being able to diagnose what problems our trees have and match them with the correct management techniques. In this session, we will work to deepen the diagnostic skills that we have gained in other sessions or from our experience on the field. We will review common pest, pathogens, and abiotic disorders, and discuss effective management options of these issues. The goal is to leave with some confidence to make plant healthcare recommendations that are realistic and efficacious to the clients that we serve.

1 ISA32753Education Sessions, Trainingeducation-sessions training
9:30 AM - 10:30 AMANSI A300 Tree Care Standards UpdateView

Speaker: Sam Hill, Chair, A300 Committee/Sam Hill Tree Care and TCIA ANSI A300 committee members

Using ANSI A300 Tree Care standards as a basis of your tree care operations can:

  • Improve efficiency at your company
  • Ensure your company provides proper tree care services
  • Promote good communication between your salesperson, the tree crew, and the client
  • Protect your company from costly service call backs, claims, and lawsuits.

This session will give you an update on current and upcoming ANSI A300 Tree Care standards committee activities, outline some key developments tree care companies need to be aware of as well as some lessons learned from previous years of experience using A300 standards.

This workshop includes a review of current issues and common work proposal mistakes that can result in costly claims and lawsuits.  The new ANSI A300-2023 standard offers some protection and work specification writing guidance that can mitigate these issues and help protect you and your company.

1 ISA31652Advocacy & Regulatory Compliance, Education Sessionsadvocacy-regulatory-compliance education-sessions
9:30 AM - 10:30 AMHard Conversations and Changing the Conversation on SafetyView

Speaker: Jeff Inman, CTSP, Truetimber Arborists

We speak on standards as an industry and how we need to follow the shalls and mind the shoulds. Oftentimes, we find ourselves in a situation, especially when teaching, training and trying to enact change, where we interact with folks who aren’t all about following these standards. How do you interact with those individuals? How do you enter into a conversation about what you’re seeing vs what you know is written down? OSHA and the Z133 are a lot for folks to digest and often people throw their hands up saying, “I’ve done it for years and never had an issue. Why do I have to change just because that book says so? Because the safety person says so? I’m fine! Leave me be and let me work!”

This presentation dives into the heart of where our standards are born as well as how to interact with people to promote change in an organization.

1 CTSP & ISA32154Education Sessions, Safetyeducation-sessions safety
9:30 AM - 10:30 AMWhen in Doubt, Rig it OutView

Speaker: Zachary Richards, Contract Climber & Trainer

Between flashy gear options, and social media clips of wild rigging operations, we can get wrapped up in the complexities of rigging, and forget how simple it can actually be. Oftentimes when approaching tight quarters tree removals, It’s easy to become overwhelmed and resort to the trusty “cut and chuck.” Join Zach for a discussion on advanced rigging, simplifying solutions to complex situations, and why looking for opportunities to rig could lead to an overall better jobsite culture.

1 CTSP & ISA340-34155Education Sessions, Trainingeducation-sessions training
11:00 AM - 12:00 PMDiscovering Forestry Podcast: The Future of PHC – Advances in Technology and PracticesView

Sponsored by Arborjet | Ecologel

Speaker: Joe Aiken (ISA Certified Arborist) and Korey Lofy (ISA Certified Arborist), Arborjet | Ecologel

Brought back by popular demand, Joe and Korey will host a live episode of their award-winning podcast, Discovery Forestry, to discuss the past, present, and future state of technology and practices in the plant health care industry. With over 60 years of combined experience in the field, Joe and Korey will discuss where PHC is today, what the newest advances are, and where things will be in the future. Between new technology, clean energy, legislative restrictions, labor challenges, and new research, there’s plenty of topics to explore!

There will be time at the end of the session for questions and answers.

1 ISA30165Education Sessions, Sales & Marketingeducation-sessions sales-marketing
11:00 AM - 12:00 PMSustaining Optimal Performance in Tree Care Using the “Ready to Work” ModelView

Speaker: Bill Owens, Monarch Tree Services, Director of Arbor Operations, CTSP

How can arborists sustain optimal performance throughout their careers by using the ready to work model? In this session, we will define optimal performance, and relate the concept to longevity in tree care. We will discuss the ready to work model and how you can use it to meet the demands of tree care in a sustainable way.

Using the ready to work model helps you optimize your physical capacity, mental capability, and emotional agility. We will discuss these three dimensions of performance and provide you with specific tools and techniques you and your team can use to optimize performance in each of these three dimensions. Applying these tools will support you in finding new and interesting ways to sustain optimal performance in your career as an arborist. You will leave the session inspired, and ready to work, with new tools to manage your physical, mental, and emotional energy.

1 ISA32764Education Sessions, Safetyeducation-sessions safety
11:00 AM - 12:00 PMFrom Expert to Educator: Developing Trainers Who InspireView

Speaker: Korey Conry, CTSP, Mountain F. Enterprises, Inc.

Training trainers to effectively use PowerPoint involves a systematic approach to ensure they can confidently deliver engaging presentations. Here’s an outline of the process:

  1. Need Assessment
  2. Content Development
  3. Training Delivery
  4. Slide Design and Visuals
  5. Presentation Techniques
  6. Feedback and Evaluation
  7. Ongoing Support and Resources

Remember, training the trainers is an iterative process. Continuously assess their progress, address any emerging challenges, and adapt the training program as needed to ensure sustained improvement and effectiveness.

1 CTSP & ISA32162Education Sessions, Trainingeducation-sessions training
11:00 AM - 12:00 PMModern Tree Nutrition ProductsView

Speaker: Zach Shier, Joseph Tree Service

The world of arboriculture is always changing and as the industry moves away from some of the old methods of treating for tree nutrient deficiencies, new products and methods have emerged. The increased use of organic based products, emphasis on foliar and soil testing, and improved methods for amending soil and understanding tree deficiencies can be challenging to navigate. This presentation will help make sense of why organic products are becoming more popular and help explain the different types. We’ll go over modern methods and why some of the traditional methods may be less than optimal as well as explaining some of the comparisons between types of fertilization and other products in the Arborist’s toolbox.

1 ISA33763Education Sessions, Trainingeducation-sessions training
2:30 PM - 3:30 PMCultivating Company Culture & RetentionView

Speaker: Bethany Kemppainen, Guardian Tree Experts

People are the most valuable part of any organization. Employee turnover can be high in the arboriculture industry, leading to wasted time, money and energy. This presentation will focus on company culture being the “secret sauce” to retaining top talent. Good culture doesn’t mean you have to force people into a mold or act against their nature to fit in at your company. It’s an intentional focus on providing care and compassion, which benefits everyone in the long run. So how do you create a collaborative culture that inspires people to stay and grow with your company? We will explore that, ways to improve culture, and why you should examine yours more closely.

1 ISA32177Education Sessions, Workforce Developmenteducation-sessions workforce-development
2:30 PM - 3:30 PMPlant Health Care: A Holistic ApproachView

Speaker: Aaron Dickinson, Arborcology, LLC

In an era of instant gratification, fast food, drive-up windows and same day delivery, society has come to expect instant results. Have we, as arborists, become a by-product of society expectations and when discussing tree care, do we prescribe the “silver bullet” treatment first? Our communication with the client requires the aspect of cultural practices that can remedy the plant’s issue, with the assistance of a chemical control and lead to reduce applications.

Many companies are growing their plant health care divisions with the expectation of generating 30% or more of the revenue from PHC. I have seen companies prescribing a chemical approach to the plant care problem and downplaying the necessity to cultural care. Are we being true stewards of the environment when we encourage treatments annually and forego the practices of solving the problem?

This presentation will explore some common PHC problems that frequently have repeated applications that benefit from cultural approaches, or the consideration of different chemical approaches combined with the cultural practices.

1 ISA32780Education Sessions, Trainingeducation-sessions training
2:30 PM - 3:30 PMNever Waste a Good Crisis: Improving Safety After a Major IncidentView

Speaker: Craig Bachmann, Tree133 LLC, Lead Arborist & Founder, CTSP

Learn valuable lessons from a recent climber fall and resulting state-level OSHA investigation. Attendees will receive practical guidance to improve work planning, team communication, PPE inspection, skills development and documentation. With these steps, your company can build a

stronger safety culture and more effectively prevent on-the-job incidents.

In August 2022, Tree133 experienced a climber fall resulting in a severe injury. For a well-respected company owned by a recognized trainer, this was an unthinkable event that challenged everything we believed about ourselves and our culture. This presentation will share valuable lessons learned from that incident and the resulting state-level OSHA investigation. Attendees will learn practical steps to improve work planning, team communication, PPE inspection, skills development and documentation. By sharing this experience, Tree133 can help other companies build a strong culture of safety and prevent on-the-job incidents.

1 CTSP & ISA CEU31679Education Sessions, Safetyeducation-sessions safety
2:30 PM - 3:30 PMFeeling Forces: Tree Work Forces Training with a Practical and Engaging MethodView

Speaker: Emmett Shutts, Jr., CTSP, QCL, and Corey Shepard, CTSP, The Davey Tree Expert Company

Arborist trainers will agree to teach rigging and climbing forces is technical and the terminology can be challenging for learners. In January of 2019, we started a journey of refining a hands on approach to teaching the forces we create while working with trees. This talk will share how we have developed our training method. Attendees will leave with techniques and ideas they can use to make for fun and engaging rigging training.

1 CTSP & ISA340-34178Education Sessions, Trainingeducation-sessions training
4:00 PM - 5:00 PMImmunity Unleashed: The Science of Induced ResistanceView

Speaker: Glynn Percival, Ph. D., Bartlett Tree Research Laboratory

During their lifetime, trees planted within urban landscapes are susceptible to pathogenic fungi and bacteria that, if uncontrolled, can result in tree decline and eventually death. Presently, conventional management relies heavily on repeat application of insecticides and/or fungicides applied as foliar sprays, trunk injection or soil drenches. Build-up of pathogen resistance coupled with environmental concerns means alternative methods of pest and disease management are warranted.

Trees possess a range of active defense systems that can “switched on” prior to infection by a plant pathogen by the application of specific organic compounds. This concept of boosting a tree’s own inherent immunity is known as induced resistance (IR). The IR response is critical and can reflect the difference between coping and succumbing to necrotizing pests and pathogens. This presentation will discuss the range of inducing agents available for professionals involved in tree management as well as their effectiveness, time of application and strategies for use within urban landscapes.

1 ISA32184Education Sessions, Trainingeducation-sessions training
4:00 PM - 5:00 PMLeveraging AI: Powerful Tools to Take Your Tree Service to New HeightsView

Speaker: Monica Hemingway, Tree Care Marketing Solutions and Jonathan Mast, Whitebeard Strategies

Artificial Intelligence (AI) can help tree service companies streamline operations, improve customer service, and make data-driven decisions for a more successful business. But most people are still stuck thinking about AI along the lines of “How to use ChatGPT to write 100 social media posts in five minutes!”.
 
This presentation goes well beyond the usual “Gee whiz, isn’t this AI stuff fun?” content. Instead, we focus on the AI-powered tools and processes that affect a company’s bottom line. We take the mystery out of how to use these powerful platforms, reduce the cost and complexity that can be associated with AI, and generate high-quality data and outputs that you can use in your business. Plus, we throw in a few fun things you can do with AI that you probably haven’t heard about before. If you want to know what AI can do to help your business, this presentation is for you!

1 ISA31685Education Sessions, Sales & Marketingeducation-sessions sales-marketing
4:00 PM - 5:00 PMCSI for BUGS: Honing Your Diagnostic SkillsView

Speaker: Mike Raupp, Ph. D., University of Maryland

Factors of the abiotic, non-living world and those of the biotic, living world act individually or in concert to imperil the health and beauty of woody plants in landscapes. Designing a therapy to restore plant health requires an accurate diagnosis of what the problem is and elucidation of factors contributing to the problem. Using a variety of case studies of native and non-native pests, this interactive presentation will present a methodology for diagnosing causes of tree decline and provide solutions to improve plant health and appearance. While the emphasis will be on problems caused by insect pests, problems associated with pathogens and abiotic factors will also be discussed.  

1 ISA30186Education Sessions, Trainingeducation-sessions training
4:30 PM - 6:00 PMNetworking Reception, sponsored by SavATreeView

Join TCIA’s Women in Tree Care for a networking reception in the Camden Street Lobby. This event is open to all and includes light refreshments and a cash bar.

**Separate registration required.

Camden Street Lobby87
3:30 PM – 4:00 PMMentality of Tree CareView

Speaker: Hans Tielmann III, CTSP, Noble Oak Safety & Training

Trade Show Floor | Booth #288783TCI EXPOGrowtci-expo-grow
3:00 PM – 4:00 PMOpen Truss – 3:00 PM – 4:00 PMView

Discover the Meaning of Open Truss Here

TCI EXPOClimb82TCI EXPOClimbtci-expoclimb
3:00 PM – 3:30 PMPerforming for an Aerial Rescue in the Work ZoneView

SpeakersJon Foote & David O’Neill

Learn the crucial techniques for performing aerial rescues in work zones, prioritizing safety and efficiency. This 30-session offers hands-on demonstrations and expert insights to prepare you for any.

.5 CTSP & ISAThe Work Zone81The Work Zonework-zone
2:30 PM – 3:15 PMWhen the Tree Doesn’t Provide, Use a Highline to Get Yourself TiedView

Speaker: Ryan Torcicollo, CTSP, SavATree

.75 CTSP & ISA CEUsTree Demo76Tree Demotree-demo-2
2:30 PM – 3:00 PMThe Use of Friction SaversView

Speaker: James Earhart

.5 CTSP & ISA CEUsTCI EXPOClimb75TCI EXPOClimbtci-expoclimb
1:45 PM – 2:15 PMThe Power of WomynView

Speakers: Bear LeVangie and Melissa LeVangie Ingersoll, Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop

Trade Show Floor | Booth #288774TCI EXPOGrowtci-expo-grow
1:30 PM – 2:30 PMOpen Truss – 1:30 PM – 2:30 PMView

Discover the Meaning of Open Truss Here

TCI EXPOClimb73TCI EXPOClimbtci-expoclimb
1:30 PM – 2:00 PMEmergency Response: Navigating Wires Under TensionView

SpeakerBill Burley

Learn critical techniques for safely handling emergency situations involving wires under tension. This session will equip you with the skills to quickly and effectively respond to high-risk scenarios, ensuring safety for yourself and others.

.5 CTSP & ISAThe Work Zone72The Work Zonework-zone
1:00 PM– 1:30 PMTypes of Felling Cuts at HeightView

Speaker: Jared Abrojena, The Academy

.5 CTSP & ISA CEUsTCI EXPOClimb70TCI EXPOClimbtci-expoclimb
12:45 PM – 1:30 PMUnderstanding SRS & Mechanical Devices in an Aerial RescueView

Speaker: Tyler Zuniga, North American Training Solutions

.75 CTSP & ISA CEUsTree Demo68Tree Demotree-demo-2
11:30 AM – 1:00 PMOpen Truss – 11:30 AM – 1:00 PMView

Discover the Meaning of Open Truss Here

TCI EXPOClimb67TCI EXPOClimbtci-expoclimb
11:30 AM – 12:30 PMIndustry Conversation – 100 Years of HistoryView

Speakers: David White, TCIA and Caitlyn Pollihan, ISA; Moderated by Paul Putman, Tree Research and Education Endowment (TREE) Fund

Trade Show Floor | Booth #288766TCI EXPOGrowtci-expo-grow
11:00 AM – 11:30 AMIntegrating Competition Climbing into Your Daily PracticesView

Speaker: Stephanie Litenburg, TreeLife Arborists

.5 CTSP & ISA CEUsTCI EXPOClimb61TCI EXPOClimbtci-expoclimb
10:00 AM – 10:30 AMPost Installation EstablishmentView

Speaker: Andy Jones, CTSP, Rooted Arbor Care

.5 CTSP & ISA CEUsTCI EXPOClimb57TCI EXPOClimbtci-expoclimb
10:30 AM - 11:15 AMStudent Career Day SessionView

Speaker: Mark Chisolm, CTSP, Aspen Tree Expert Co.

.75 CTSP & ISA CEUsTree Demo60Tree Demotree-demo-2
10:30 AM – 11:00 AMCrane Use in the Work ZoneView

SpeakerHans Tielmann

Explore essential safety protocols and best practices for crane use in work zones, focusing on collaboration between operators and ground workers. Enhance your understanding of communication and coordination techniques to ensure a safe and efficient working environment.

.5 CTSP & ISAThe Work Zone59The Work Zonework-zone
10:00 AM – 10:30 AMYoga for ArboristsView

Amy Tetreault, TCIA

Trade Show Floor | Booth #288756TCI EXPOGrowtci-expo-grow
9:30 AM – 10:00 AMWork Zone MitigationView

SpeakersHans Tielmann & Zach Richards

Discover effective strategies to minimize risks and enhance safety in work zones. Learn practical techniques for identifying and mitigating potential hazards to ensure a secure working environment.

.5 CTSP & ISAThe Work Zone51The Work Zonework-zone
9:00 AM – 10:00 AMOpen Truss – 9:00 AM – 10:00 AMView

Discover the Meaning of Open Truss Here

TCI EXPOClimb50TCI EXPOClimbtci-expoclimb
9:15 AM – 9:45 AMThe S-A-F-E-T-Y DanceView

Speaker: Bear LeVangie and Melissa LeVangie Ingersoll, Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop

.75 CTSP & ISA CEUsTree Demo49Tree Demotree-demo-2
5:30 PM - 6:30 PMPeer-to-Peer Reception (Invitation-only)View

This private reception is an exclusive gathering for individuals who are interested in or currently part of our peer-to-peer groups-a dynamic, self-governing collective of forward-thinking company leaders. This event offers a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals who are committed to sharing their insights, expertise, and industry experiences. Engage in meaningful conversations, exchange strategies, and collaborate on best practices aimed at driving personal, professional, and business growth. Whether you’re a seasoned peer group member or exploring group membership, this reception promises valuable networking and the chance to contribute to a community of business leaders in the tree care industry.

Business Lounge88TCIA Business Loungebusiness-lounge-2
1:00 PM - 2:00 PMIndustry Pulse: Latest Findings on Compensation, DEI, and Financial Performance from TCIA’s Benchmarking and Compensation SurveyView

Speaker: Bob Rouse, Senior Vice President, Business Support & ANSI A300 Secretary

Gain valuable insights from our latest benchmarking and compensation survey! Discover new industry trends and financial performance insights, along with key findings on wage and benefit statistics, DEI benchmarks, and pay transparency data.

Business Lounge71Business Strategy, TCIA Business Loungebusiness-strategy business-lounge-2
1:00 PM - 1:30 PMAdvocacy in Action: Key Updates on Regulations and Policy for ArboristsView

Speaker: David F. White, CAE, President & CEO, Peter Gerstenberger, Senior Vice President, Industry Support and a representative from Ulman Public Policy

Learn about and inquire about current issues and advocacy efforts of TCIA around OSHA Tree Care Operations Rulemaking, OSHA standard for arborists, immigration reform, funding for urban and community forestry projects and much more. Learn how you can make your voice heard through the TCIA advocacy and regulatory initiatives.

Business Lounge69Advocacy & Regulatory Compliance, TCIA Business Loungeadvocacy-regulatory-compliance business-lounge-2
10:30 AM - 11:00 AMAccreditation Meet Up: Connect, Share, and GrowView

Speaker: Bob Rouse, Senior Vice President, Business Support & ANSI A300 Secretary

Connect and collaborate with fellow TCIA Accredited and aspiring companies enrolled in the TCIA Accreditation Program! Share insights, best practices, and challenges as you navigate the accreditation process together. Let’s learn and grow as a community.

Business Lounge58Business Strategy, TCIA Business Loungebusiness-strategy business-lounge-2
8:30 AM - 9:00 AMTCIA Town Hall: Our VisionView

Speaker: David F. White, CAE, President & CEO, TCIA, Amy Tetreault, Executive Vice President, TCIA

Join Dave and Amy for a TCIA Town Hall focused on the direction of YOUR trade association. Dave will paint the big picture of where TCIA is going. Amy will help connect the dots between the vision of TCIA and what that means for you – our members – and your day-to-day. This is your chance to discuss the vision of TCIA and ask Dave and Amy questions!

Business Lounge48Business Strategy, TCIA Business Loungebusiness-strategy business-lounge-2

Saturday, Nov. 9

TimeTitleViewSession DescriptionCEUsRoomNumberTrackshf:tax:ept_schedule_track
9:30 AM - 10:30 AMProfessionalism in Tree Care ProjectView

Speaker: Basil Thomson, Ulman Public Policy and Bob Rouse, Tree Care Industry Association

Describing and marketing professionalism in tree care for contracting agencies is an ongoing problem.  TCIA, ISA, and other green industry partners are banding together to provide a solution. This session will review our solutions, including some valuable, new resources.

The allocation of $1.5 billion in funds for the United States Forest Service (USFS) to distribute as grants for tree planting and maintenance, career pathways into arboriculture and other related projects revealed significant gaps in comprehension regarding the tree care profession. Grantees and other agencies and clients lack the understanding and resources to contract for tree work with professional companies and to verify that completed work meets industry standards. Furthermore, grantees seeking to provide and prepare workers for career opportunities in the tree care industry lack access to and knowledge of credentials and training programs. TCIA is banding together ISA and other green industry groups to lead the development of a green industry clearing house that provides the base knowledge and resources that grant recipients, such as pass-through grantees, municipalities, non-profits, and community-based organizations, and clients need to recognize and contract for professional tree services and provide new career pathways into arboriculture. 

The project will include:

  • A Tree Care Industry Resource Hub where contracting agencies can find resources that help them understand what it means to be a professional tree care company, the related credentials that professional tree care companies and professional arborists hold, and the resources needed to help them contract with those professionals.
  • An outreach program to encourage IRA grantees, municipalities, government agencies, commercial companies and other contractors to use these resources in order to contract with professional tree care companies and arborists.
1 ISA32194Advocacy & Regulatory Compliance, Education Sessionsadvocacy-regulatory-compliance education-sessions
8:00 AM - 9:00 AMMain Stage: From Standards to Safety: Navigating the New Z133 with Industry LeadersView

Speakers: Dr. John Ball, CTSP, Professor, South Dakota State University and Tim Walsh, CTSP, Townsend Company

Arboricultural operations are one of the highest risk activities in the United States. Tree workers have a fatality rate 15 to 30 times higher than the all-industry average. They also suffer from a disproportionally high severe nonfatal rate compared to other industries. One means of reducing these high rates is for tree workers to follow the Z133 Safety Requirements for Arboricultural Operations. The new revision of the Z is now completed and there are many important changes in the new standard. Tim Walsh, VP of Safety and Training with Townsend Company LLC and John Ball, Professor of Forestry, South Dakota State University, will lead you through these changes from electrical hazards to training requirements and cover the incidents that adherence to the standard will reduce or prevent.  

1 CTSP & ISA308-30989Advocacy & Regulatory Compliance, Main Stage Sessions, Safetyadvocacy-regulatory-compliance main-stage-sessions safety
9:30 AM - 10:30 AMBusiness Ethics in ArboricultureView

Speaker: Aaron Dickinson, Arborcology, LLC

Ethics is not a term that we use on a daily basis, and when we do describe an ethical/ unethical action, we have an understanding of what it means, but when asked what IS ethics, the definition tends to elude us, but yet, we somehow understand it. So, what does Business Ethics mean and how does that affect our business? Our profitability, the company reputation, the company culture? or the work force we attract?

Understanding Six Principles of Business Ethics can help guide our businesses to a better work force that works together for a greater purpose, a greater client experience, a higher quality work product and greater profits.

1 ISA32793Business Strategy, Education Sessionsbusiness-strategy education-sessions
11:00 AM - 12:00 PMBeing a True ProfessionalView

Speaker: Mark Chisholm, CTSP, Aspen Tree Expert Company

Growing up in the tree care industry has given Mark a unique understanding as to where the industry was, where it is, and where it is going. This talk will be a fun walk down memory lane where Mark shares pictures, videos and insights about what it takes to be a true professional and how make sure you are representing yourself and our profession in the best possible light.

1 CTSP & ISA316102Education Sessions, Workforce Developmenteducation-sessions workforce-development
11:00 AM - 12:00 PMThe Normalization of RiskView

Speaker: Tyler Lyon, CTSP, and Chris Sprague, CTSP, Bartlett Tree Experts

In 1986, millions witnessed the Challenger space shuttle disaster that tragically killed seven astronauts. Searching for an explanation, sociologist Diane Vaughn developed the concept of normalization of deviance, the gradual drift towards risk-acceptance and unsafe behaviors that set the stage for the Challenger explosion. Drawing from Vaughn and other safety research, Tyler and Chris will expound upon the concepts of normalization of deviance and drift to help understand risk in our behaviors and decisions in tree care at individual, group, and organization levels. Tyler and Chris will challenge attendees to reevaluate the way they perceive and manage safety, while providing tools and resources from this framework to help avoid these pitfalls.

1 CTSP & ISA321104Education Sessions, Safetyeducation-sessions safety
11:00 AM - 12:00 PMStorm Hazard AssessmentView

Speaker: David O’Neill, Contractor

Discuss the hazard assessment process for storm damage scenarios, with reference to applicable regulatory standards. We will then delve deeper into these concepts in a demonstration using a Jekko track mounted crane and a Platform Basket Spider lift to highlight the use of various techniques and pieces of equipment in order to handle these scenarios safely and in compliance.

1 CTSP & ISA340-341103Education Sessions, Trainingeducation-sessions training
12:30 PM – 1:00 PMPerforming for an Aerial Rescue in the Work ZoneView

SpeakersJon Foote & David O’Neill

Learn the crucial techniques for performing aerial rescues in work zones, prioritizing safety and efficiency. This 30-session offers hands-on demonstrations and expert insights to prepare you for any.

.5 CTSP & ISAThe Work Zone108The Work Zonework-zone
12:15 PM – 12:45 PMRight Gear for Right StyleView

Speaker: Travis Vickerson, Vertical Supply Group

Trade Show Floor | Booth #2887107TCI EXPOGrowtci-expo-grow
12:00 PM – 1:00 PMOpen Truss – 12:00 PM – 1:00 PMView

Discover the Meaning of Open Truss Here

TCI EXPOClimb106TCI EXPOClimbtci-expoclimb
11:15 AM – 11:45 AMWhat the $%#&: When Things Go Wrong in Rigging: Part 2View

Speaker: Mike Tilford, CTSP & Ryan Torcicollo, CTSP

.5 CTSP & ISATCI EXPOClimb105TCI EXPOClimbtci-expoclimb
11:00 AM – 11:45 AMElectrical Safety Tools & Applications for Tree WorkersView

Speaker: Ed Carpenter, North American Training Solutions

.75 CTSP & ISA CEUsTree Demo101Tree Demotree-demo-2
10:30 AM – 11:00 AMEmergency Response: Navigating Wires Under TensionView

SpeakerBill Burley

Learn critical techniques for safely handling emergency situations involving wires under tension. This session will equip you with the skills to quickly and effectively respond to high-risk scenarios, ensuring safety for yourself and others.

.5 CTSP & ISAThe Work Zone99The Work Zonework-zone
10:15 AM – 10:45 AMWhat the $%#&: When Things Go Wrong in Rigging: Part 1View

Speakers: Mike Tilford, CTSP, & Ryan Torcicollo, CTSP, SavATree

Trade Show Floor | Booth #288798TCI EXPOGrowtci-expo-grow
10:00 AM – 11:30 AMOpen Truss – 10:00 AM – 11:30 AMView

Discover the Meaning of Open Truss Here

TCI EXPOClimb97TCI EXPOClimbtci-expoclimb
9:30 AM – 10:00 AMPruning EfficienciesView

Speaker: Jared Abrojena, The Academy

.5 CTSP & ISA CEUsTCI EXPOClimb92TCI EXPOClimbtci-expoclimb
9:15 AM – 10:00 AMCan You be Rescued? Solutions to Improve Climber SafetyView

Speaker: Craig Bachmann, CTSP, Tree133, LLC

.75 CTSP & ISA CEUsTree Demo91Tree Demotree-demo-2
11:00 AM - 11:30 AMBoost Recruitment and Retention with TCIA’s Arborist Apprenticeship ProgramView

Speaker: Erin Demers, Manager, Workforce Recruitment & Retention,

Discover how TCIA’s Arborist Apprenticeship Training Program can impact employee recruitment and retention. Learn more about how this program ensures apprentices are eligible for the ISA Certified Arborist Exam!

Business Lounge100TCIA Business Lounge, Workforce Developmentbusiness-lounge-2 workforce-development
10:00 AM - 11:30 AMLeveraging Your Fellow Members with TCIA Networking OpportunitiesView

Speaker: Bob Rouse, Senior Vice President, Business Support & ANSI A300 Secretary, Erin Demers, Manager, Workforce Recruitment & Retention,

Discover how networking with fellow business owners can reduce stress, streamline operations, and boost your bottom line. TCIA provides events, mentorship programs, and peer-to-peer opportunities to connect you with a supportive community and support your business growth.

Business Lounge96Business Strategy, TCIA Business Loungebusiness-strategy business-lounge-2
10:00 AM - 10:30 AMFree Training Opportunities: Maximizing ASTI Resources and GrantsView

Speaker: Erin Demers, Manager, Workforce Recruitment & Retention, TCIA

Learn about quality safety training resources and grant opportunities available through TCIAF’s Arborist Safety Training Institute (ASTI). Find out how you can access free training, and education!

Business Lounge95TCIA Business Lounge, Workforce Developmentbusiness-lounge-2 workforce-development
8:30 AM - 9:00 AMThe Search Is On: Finding Info to Build Your Business & Increase Your KnowledgeView

Speaker: Don Staruk, Editor, TCI Magazine, Susan DiPietro, TCI Magazine Managing Editor/Website Editor, Dennis Schaefer, Art Director, TCI Magazine

Ever feel lost, confused or underwhelmed while searching for answers to arboricultural questions? Whether you’re shopping for a grapple crane or trying to figure out how to incorporate PHC into your business, TCI Magazine’s website offers you a powerful “search engine” with the mapping and fresh content you need to grow your business or improve your arboricultural knowledge. In this interactive pop-up session, TCI staff will demonstrate how to harness the power of the TCI Magazine website to find the tree care information you are looking for. They will use the popular topic of starting a PHC business as their example.

Business Lounge90Sales & Marketing, TCIA Business Loungesales-marketing business-lounge-2

Event Hours

Thursday, November 7
7:30 am – 4:30 pm

Friday, November 8
8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Saturday, November 9
8:00 am – 12:00 pm

Thursday, November 7
10:00 am – 4:30 pm

Friday, November 8
9:00 am – 4:00 pm

Saturday, November 9
9:00 am – 1:00 pm

Wednesday, November 6
7:00 am – 5:00 pm

Thursday, November 7
6:30 am – 4:30 pm

Friday, November 8
7:00 am – 5:00 pm

Saturday, November 9
7:00 am – 12:00 pm