Fostering Career Development
Sponsored by
Friday, November 8th at TCI EXPO ’24
8:00 am – 3:30 pm, Baltimore Convention Center
Calling all aspiring arborists! Student Career Day (SCD) is here to kickstart your professional journey. Discover endless opportunities for career development and get ready to shape the future of arboriculture.
If you’re in high school, college, a vocational student, or even an arborist apprentice who wants to learn more about the tree care industry, meet industry professionals, make connections, and win some great prizes, we invite you to Student Career Day on Friday, November 8 sponsored by STIHL Inc. Students can also attend all three days of TCI EXPO ‘24 for free!
If you are interested in attending, please contact the student advisor at your school and have them reach out to us at StudentCareerDays@TCIA.org for more information.
Student Career Day Skills Competition
The Skills Competition includes learning, fun and friendly competition in the field of arboriculture. You’ll get to learn and showcase your skills and have a great time!
Competition 1 | Knot Tying, hosted by Ahlum & Arbor Tree Preservation: Compete in tying commons knots and hitches used by arborists! Students will be asked to tie 5 different knots or hitches selected from the following list: Alpine Butterfly, Anchor hitch, Blakes hitch, Bowline, Bowline on a bight, Cow hitch, Double fisherman’s loop, Figure 8, Quick hitch, Midline girth hitch, Midline clove hitch, Munter hitch, Sheet bend, Slipknot, Timber hitch. Students will be scored and earn points on each knot and hitch tied correctly. This is a timed event.
Competition 2 | Pest ID, hosted by Bartlett Tree Experts: Students will identify plant problems that may occur for various reasons, including damage caused by pest insects, disease, and certain abiotic problems.
Competition 3 | Tree Trivia, hosted by The Davey Tree Expert Company: Show your knowledge of urban forestry, arboriculture, and climate change! In this competition, students will be shown specimens, conditions, or scenarios and asked to accurately identify key terms or concepts associated with trees, common conditions associated with urban environments, and climate change. Participants are encouraged to study applied tree biology, CODIT, pruning, systemic tree responses to pests and pathogens, and urban forestry concepts. Additionally, faculty and students can use content from this website for preparation.
Competition 4 | Throwline Cornhole, hosted by SavATree: Demonstrate your throwline skills in this fun challenge! Using any throwing technique, students will be scored based on precision and technique.
Competition 5 |TCIA & ISA: Exploring Your Industry Organizations, hosted by Wachtel Tree Science Inc.: Are you a student passionate about trees and the environment?
Put your knowledge to the test in our exciting competition, where you’ll answer 15-20 questions about the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA) and the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA)! This challenge is designed specifically for students eager to learn more about the organizations that lead the way in tree care and arboriculture.
You’ll explore topics like the history and mission of these organizations, their role in promoting sustainable practices, and the certifications and standards they set for the industry. It’s a fantastic opportunity to deepen your understanding of arboriculture, discover career opportunities, and connect with other students who share your passion.