Mid-State Technical College’s Tree Tech event brings arboriculture to life through hands-on training and real-world career exploration. The event connects high school students, college students, alumni, and industry professionals to showcase the growing demand and opportunity in the tree care industry.
Participants rotate through skill-based stations focused on chainsaw safety, tree climbing, plant identification, and bucket truck operation. Students train alongside experienced professionals from across Wisconsin and beyond, gaining exposure to advanced techniques and industry practices not often available at this stage in their education.
“This experience is one-of-a-kind,” said Dr. Alex Lendved, dean of Mid-State’s Marshfield Campus and School of Applied Technology. “Students work side-by-side with industry experts and see how many different directions a career in arboriculture can take them.”
Tree Tech highlights the wide range of career opportunities in arboriculture, from climbing and rigging to tree health, utility work, vegetation management, and conservation. By engaging directly with professionals, students gain a clearer understanding of the skills needed and the paths available in this high-demand field.
Events like Tree Tech also play an important role in building the workforce. With strong demand across commercial, utility, and municipal sectors, early exposure helps students explore careers and prepare for the future.
Through partnerships with industry leaders and hands-on learning experiences, Mid-State continues to connect education with career opportunities and inspire the next generation of arborists.
To learn more about Mid-State’s Arborist Technician program, visit mstc.edu/programs/arborist-technician.