ArborEXPO™ '26

Location: Mallary Building

Presented by Ed Carpenter, Director of Operations NATS
Location: TBD

In arboriculture and technical tree climbing, safety isn't optional — it's essential. This one-hour session provides a comprehensive overview of the training requirements for Personal Fall Protection Systems (PFPS) used in technical tree climbing. Designed for arborists, supervisors, safety managers, and industry professionals, the session covers regulatory foundations, system components, training standards, and practical approaches to implementing effective fall protection strategies in the field.

Attendees will gain a clear understanding of OSHA standards and how they apply to climbing techniques, harnesses, ropes, anchor points, fall arrest, positioning, and restraint systems. The discussion will emphasize hands-on training, equipment inspection, competency evaluation, and documentation — ensuring climbers are not only compliant but truly competent.

Whether you're an experienced climber or responsible for overseeing climbing operations, this session will clarify what's required for safe work at height — and what's at risk when training is insufficient or outdated. This presentation is for Arborists, crew leaders, safety trainers, utility vegetation managers, climbing instructors, tree care business owners, and EH&S professionals.

CEUs earned TBD

Speakers:

Ed Carpenter

North American Training Solutions (NATS)

Presented by Ed Gilman, Professor Emeritus
Location: TBD

Many arborists understand the basic concept of leverage – and they experience it every day. To prune trees safely, we must become effective managers of leverage. But how can we quickly identify the best locations for pruning cuts on mature trees, and, more importantly, teach this skill to others?

The process presented in this session is simple and easy for any arborist to grasp. Learn how to deliver repeatable, consistent, high-quality pruning that your customers expect and deserve.

CEUs earned TBD

Speakers:

Ed Gilman, Ph.D

Presented by Jim Ingram, President and CEO Bartlett Tree Experts
Location: TBD

Building Bridges Between Generations starts with Listening and Learning about others. The story of the presenter’s Father, Jack Ingram, who led a fascinating military career in the then-emerging field of aerography and later in intelligence, illustrates the key leadership character traits to be gained when you understand, respect and honor the experiences, thoughts, ideas, dreams, challenges, and opportunities of people who are younger and older than you.

Leadership is lending a helping hand to build bridges between generations. The life experiences of the presenter’s Father, and his own leadership approach with a focus on “the last person hired,” details how understanding the experiences that shape your own life will help you to understand the lives of others; thus, helping everyone to better communicate, learn, prosper and care for those in your own generation and every other generation.

This presentation will discuss how we can develop as leaders when we Listen, Learn, and Lead! The speaker’s book, Unlimited Duty, which chronicles the accomplishments of his father and the lessons that shaped the traits of his character to live fully and honorably, will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, signed at the Bartlett booth.

CEUs earned TBD

Speakers:

Jim Ingram

Presented by Dr John Ball, South Dakota State University
Location: TBD

Electrocution remains one of the leading causes of fatalities in arboriculture and has been a serious hazard since the earliest days of overhead line installation.

This session examines the major risks associated with working near overhead secondary and primary electrical lines, as well as communication lines. Participants will also review the new standards that define who is qualified to work within ten feet of utility and communication lines.

CEUs earned TBD

Speakers:

John Ball, Ph.D., BCMA, CTSP 

Presented by Korey Conry
Location: TBD

This presentation explores how efficiency in tree work relies on the right combination of equipment, technique, and teamwork. Participants will compare different climbing systems -- such as MRS, modern SRS, and mechanical devices – and examine how each impacts speed, energy use, and safety.

The session will also highlight saw techniques that support precision cuts, reduce fatigue, and minimize time aloft without compromising control.

Beyond tools and methods, success in arboriculture depends on effective collaboration. Clear communication, trust, and defined roles among climbers, ground crew, and leaders can make the difference between a smooth operation and a chaotic one. Participants will gain practical strategies for aligning personal efficiency with team performance, balancing technical skill with collaborative flow.

By integrating technical know-how with strong interpersonal skills, arborists can enhance both productivity and safety on every job site.

CEUs earned TBD

Speakers:

Korey Conry

Presented by Dr. Brian Kane, Ph.D., MAA Professor of Arboriculture at the University of Massachusetts - Amherst
Location: TBD

Arborists are frequently called upon to assess tree risk, which includes evaluating the likelihood of tree failure. In some cases, visible defects, or conditions, make this task straightforward. However, when defects are subtle or internal, determining which part of the tree is most likely to fail – and estimating its likelihood – can be far more complex.

This presentation shares findings from two experiments designed to explore how consistently arborists assess the likelihood of failure. The first experiment examined whether detailed information on stem decay influenced arborists’ ratings. The second investigated whether arborists consistently identified the same tree part as most likely to fail.

Results from both studies suggest that assessing the likelihood of tree failure remains largely subjective, even among credentialed professionals using advanced diagnostic tools.

CEUs earned TBD

Speakers:

Brian Kane, Ph.D.

Presented by Courtland Johnson
Location: Heli-Ax Demo Booth

CEUs earned TBD

Speakers:

Heli-Ax

Location: Demo Area Must be present to win!

Presented by Academy Trained
Location: Demo Area

CEUs earned TBD

Speakers:

Academy Trained

Presented by The Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop®
Location: The Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop® Booth

CEUs earned TBD

Speakers:

Bear LeVangie

Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop®

Presented by NATS
Location: The indoor NATS Skills Arena™

ArborSPORTS™ returns for the second year, bigger and more intense! From chainsaw cutting to tecnical rigging, arborists put their talents to the test in this fun and spirted competition! The indoor NATS Skills Arena™ will showcase a scaled-down arbor work zone featuring NATS SafeTree™ Simulators (patent pending). Here, tree crew teams will compete in hands-on skill challenges that test both their mental and physical abilities, all while a live audience cheers them on from a safe viewing area!    Note: A total of 8 teams of two will compete in Technical Skills Competitions each day. NATS will supply materials and PPE for the contestants. All ArborSPORTS™ competitors must successfully complete the NATS Skills Arena™ event to be eligible to compete in the outside ArborSPORTS™ Stadium event. Pre-registration is required, along with a refundable $100.00 deposit to reserve your spot.   

Presented by Bill Burley
Location: Heli-AX Booth Demo

CEUs earned TBD

Speakers:

Bill Burley 

Heli-Ax

Attendees can enjoy BBQ style lunch – free with registration!

Presented by The Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop®
Location: The Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop® Booth

CEUs earned TBD

Speakers:

Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop®

Presented by Carlos Rodriguez, NATS
Location: TBD

CEUs earned TBD

Speakers:

Carlos Rodriguez

Presented by Jordan Oliver
Location: Heli-AX Booth Demo 

CEUs earned TBD

Speakers:

Heli-Ax

Location: Demo Area Must be present to win!

Presented by Academy Trained
Location: Demo Area 

CEUs earned TBD

Speakers:

Academy Trained

Presented by The Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop®
Location: The Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop® Booth

CEUs earned TBD

Speakers:

Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop®

Location: Outdoor full-scale model work zone

Join us at the outdoor full-scale simulated arbor work zone, featuring NATS SafeTree™ Simulators (patent pending), where qualifying teams from the NATS Skills Arena™ will go head-to-head in the first annual ArborSPORTS™ competition. Cheer the teams on as they compete for prizes and the ultimate first-ever bragging rights!  The prizes will be as big as the event themselves! The winning team will take home $1,000 cash prize and more! 

CEUs earned TBD

Presented by Hans Tielmann, NJ Crane Experts
Location: TBD

In crane-assisted tree work, the ground crew carries the broadest range of responsibilities on site. This session examines how these team members play a critical role in maintaining a safe, efficient work area while supporting both the crane operator and the arborist aloft.

Participants will learn how to provide clear direction, anticipate potential hazards, and enhance overall situational awareness. The session will highlight effective communication techniques, hazard recognition, and strategies for preventing incidents through proactive teamwork.

Real-world examples will demonstrate how strong ground support improves safety, coordination, and workflow. Attendees will leave with practical tools to strengthen their role as the “eyes on the ground,” ensuring smoother and safer crane operations.

CEUs earned TBD

Speakers:

Hans Tielmann 

Presented by Phil Perron, Barrett Tree East
Location: TBD

Plant Health Care (PHC) is a vital part of modern tree care – but not everyone approaches it effectively. This session outlines key steps to help you improve your existing PHC department or establish a new one from the ground up.

Drawing on more than 25 years of experience in the green industry, the presenter will share insights into how PHC practices have evolved from an applicator’s perspective and what it takes to build a successful, sustainable PHC operation today.

Topics include:
• Selecting the right personnel to lead your PHC program
• Choosing appropriate equipment
• Implementing best practices in integrated pest management (IPM) and general applications 

CEUs earned TBD

Speakers:

Phil Perron

Presented by Mark Sedgley, Granum
Location: TBD

In this dynamic session, Mark Sedgley of Granum teams up with a local Tree Company to reveal how green industry professionals can reclaim their workday through smarter systems. Attendees will discover how AI and integrated tools are helping companies optimize employee tracking, service dispatch, invoicing, and social media outreach.

In this session, you’ll learn:

• Best practices for streamlining operations from admin to action.
• Practical ways to incorporate AI into marketing and client management workflows.
• On-the-ground examples from a contractor who transformed business efficiency while retaining control and standards.

Attendees will leave with actionable steps to integrate tech into their day-to-day workflow—helping them work more strategically, build stronger client relationships, and prepare their team for future challenges.

CEUs earned TBD

Speakers:

Mark Sedgley

Location: Basketball Hall of Fame.

All are welcome! Enjoy free food, a cash bar, and exclusive access to all the amenities and games at the Basketball Hall of Fame. Come play a game of basketball with friends both old and new. Free parking is available. 

Sponsored by Sennebogen.

Location: Basketball Hall of Fame.

Celebrate excellence at Arbor AWARDS! Join us as we recognize the individuals and companies raising the bar for safety, innovation, and environmental stewardship in the industry. Come cheer on your peers, get inspired by their achievements, and be part of an evening that honors the best in arboriculture.

Sponsored by Altec.

Location: Mallary Building

Presented by Joe Whitledge, Emergency Tree Responders
Location: TBD

By following a few basic steps with an ethical and professional mindset, we can set ourselves up for success. The first step is to prioritize the customer’s best interests. To do this, we need the appropriate contracts in place to allow us to work with and for our customer. Keep in mind that contract requirements vary by state, so a one-size-fits-all approach may not apply. 

Key elements to include are a three-day right to rescission, possibly an Assignment of Benefits, a Direction to Pay, and fully disclosed pricing. When these are set up correctly, you can continue working for the customer and help them get their invoices paid – all while adding a layer of protection against anyone who might consider keeping your check for themselves.  

CEUs earned TBD

Speakers:

Joe Whitledge

Presented by Bill Burley, Heli-AX
Location: TBD

Bigger isn’t always better. In our industry, it’s easy to be lured by the big price tags attached to certain projects — jobs that promise high returns but are outside our normal scope, resources, or expertise. They look like golden opportunities, but too often they turn into costly mistakes. 

This session shines a spotlight on the hidden dangers of “chasing pennies.” We’ll unpack how these tempting projects can drain profits, create safety risks, drive up stress, and erode team morale. Even worse, they can leave you chasing payments, cutting corners, and damaging your company’s culture and reputation. 

Join us to discover how to spot the red flags before it’s too late, choose the right opportunities for your business, and build a more ethical, sustainable path to success. Walk away with practical strategies that help you protect your bottom line, your people, and your peace of mind—so you can focus on the work that truly moves your company forward. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Recognize the hidden risks behind high-dollar jobs that look profitable but aren’t
• Learn how chasing the wrong work impacts safety, morale, and culture
• Discover proven strategies to evaluate opportunities with clarity and confidence
• Shift your focus toward sustainable growth and long-term profitability 

CEUs earned TBD

Speakers:

Bill Burley 

Presented by Kyle Donaldson, Harrison McPhee, Inc.
Location: TBD

Chippers are among the most common pieces of equipment on tree care jobs, yet many workers have limited understanding of their operation and associated hazards. OSHA statistics report numerous incidents involving wood chippers each year, and unfortunately, these incidents are often fatal – but most always preventable.

This session provides a detailed overview of how chippers function, including the proper use of standard safety equipment. Participants will also learn strategies and techniques for working safely around chippers, emphasizing the critical role of knowledge in reducing risk and ensuring longevity in one of the most hazardous industries.  

CEUs earned TBD

Speakers:

Kyle Donaldson

Presented by Tawny Simisky, UMass Extension Entomologist, Landscape, Nursery & Urban Forestry Program
Location: TBD

This session provides an overview of both native and non-native insect pests affecting trees and shrubs. Participants will review identification, biology, and management strategies for key species, making the session valuable for early- and late-career professionals alike. Tree and shrub health care businesses will benefit from staying current on the latest pest updates, supporting informed management decisions and knowledge-based client services. As one Massachusetts-based certified arborist notes: “[Information about] pest(s) always comes through Extension, and then you all do an amazing job disseminating the info to us via our conferences, webinars, email alerts, etc...I look to y’all and value Extension every day as our experts.”

CEUs earned TBD

Speakers:

Tawny Simisky

Presented by Jared Abrojena, Academy Trained
Location: TBD

This session introduces a comprehensive assessment program designed for tree care companies to evaluate skills, identify gaps, and strengthen team performance. Learn how structured onboarding and training can improve safety, ensure compliance, and create a solid foundation for long-term success, equipping your workforce to thrive while protecting your business and reputation.

CEUs earned TBD

Speakers:

Jared Abrojena

Presented by Rebecca Seibel, Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop®
Location: TBD

The range of mechanical work positioning devices has expanded significantly in recent years, offering tree workers more options than ever before. These tools can transform the way you climb, but with so many choices on the market, it can feel overwhelming to know where to start—and the investment isn’t small.

Experience makes all the difference. The Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop® instructor team has logged countless hours on rope using each of these devices in real-world tree care. In this session, Rebecca will share a practical, climber-focused comparison to help cut through the confusion.

Participants will learn how these devices compare in terms of:

• Hardware and rope compatibility
• Rescue implications and safety considerations
• Key inspection points and maintenance needs
• Expected lifespan and availability of replaceable parts

Whether you’re considering your first mechanical hitch or debating your next upgrade, this session will give you the knowledge to make an informed choice. After the presentation, stop by the WTCW® booth for hands-on experience with the gear and see which device best fits your climbing style.

CEUs earned TBD

Speakers:

Rebecca Seibel

Location: Demo Area Must be present to win!

Presented by Bill Burley, Heli-AX
Location: TBD

This session explores how to use angles to your advantage in rigging and climbing anchors, including techniques such as redirects, terminal points, and load sharing. Participants will learn how to accomplish anchor setups safely without overstressing the tree.

Load cells will be used to quantify the actual forces applied at anchor points, providing a practical understanding of anchor dynamics.

CEUs earned TBD

Speakers:

Bill Burley 

Location: The indoor NATS Skills Arena™

ArborSPORTS returns for the second year, bigger and more intense! From chainsaw cutting to technical rigging, arborists put their talents to the test in this fun and spirted competition! The indoor NATS Skills Arena™ will showcase a scaled-down arbor work zone featuring NATS SafeTree™ Simulators (patent pending). Here, tree crew teams will compete in hands-on skill challenges that test both their mental and physical abilities, all while a live audience cheers them on from a safe viewing area! 

  Note: A total of 8 teams of two will compete in Technical Skills Competitions each day. NATS will supply materials and PPE for the contestants. All ArborSPORTS™ competitors must successfully complete the NATS Skills Arena™ event to be eligible to compete in the outside ArborSPORTS™ Stadium event. Pre-registration is required, along with a refundable $100.00 deposit to reserve your spot.

CEUs earned TBD

Presented by Rebecca Seibel from the Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop®
Location: the Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop® Booth

CEUs earned TBD

Speakers:

Rebecca Seibel

Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop®

Presented by Bill Burley
Location: Heli-AX Demo Booth

CEUs earned TBD

Speakers:

Bill Burley 

Attendees can enjoy BBQ style lunch – free with registration!

Location: Outdoor full-scale model work zone

Join us at the outdoor full-scale simulated arbor work zone, featuring NATS SafeTree™ Simulators (patent pending), where qualifying teams from the NATS Skills Arena™ will go head-to-head in the first annual ArborSPORTS™ competition. Cheer the teams on as they compete for prizes and the ultimate first-ever bragging rights! 

Note: Qualifying teams of two will compete in a knockout round tournament competition in the disciplines of Chainsaw Cutting Skills, Technical Tree Climbing Skills, and Technical Rigging Skills. NATS will supply materials and PPE for the contestants. All ArborSPORTS™ competitors must successfully complete the NATS Skills Arena™ event to be eligible to compete in the outside ArborSPORTS™ Stadium event.  The winning team will take home $1,000 cash prize and more!

Presented by the Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop®
Location: the Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop® Booth

CEUs earned TBD

Speakers:

Bear LeVangie

Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop®

Presented by Ed Lai
Location: Heli-AX Booth Demo

CEUs earned TBD

Speakers:

Heli-Ax

Location: Demo Area Must be present to win!

Presented by Bill Burley, Heli-AX
Location: DEMO AREA

This session will focus on designing and implementing mechanical advantage systems in everyday rigging and climbing operations. Participants will explore how much force the average person can generate and the potential output achievable with mechanical advantage.

From simple setups to more complex systems, the session will cover essential equipment, techniques, and practical considerations to safely and efficiently leverage mechanical advantage in the field.

CEUs earned TBD

Speakers:

Bill Burley 

Presented by Paul Beister and Brick Reilly, Millburn Township Public Works Department
Location: TBD

In today’s fast-paced and competitive environment, leadership sets the tone for team and organizational success. Effective leadership begins within; before we can inspire, guide, and elevate others, we must first lead ourselves with clarity, discipline, and purpose.

Join Paul and Brick as they share powerful insights from both lived experience and timeless leadership principles. These industry giants will unpack how self-leadership fuels influence, how to create alignment and vision within your team, and how to lead with confidence in the moments that matter most.

CEUs earned TBD

Speakers:

Brick Reilly 

Paul Biester, CTSP 

Presented by Jamie Chambrelli, CTSP, SavATree
Location: TBD

This session examines climber-specific falls across the industry and the decision-making pathways that precede serious injury or fatality.  Participants will explore how conditions, time pressure, tool setup, and habits can cause procedural drift from established best practices.

Attendees will learn to identify the precursors to the “Big Four” incidents and implement upstream controls to prevent accidents before gravity takes control.

CEUs earned TBD

Speakers:

Jamie Chambrelli, CTSP

Presented by Kristoffer Rasmussen CTSP, Accreditation Auditor/TCIA Qualified Trainer, ISA Certified Tree Climber Evaluator
Location: TBD

This session covers the essential elements of running a successful, process-driven tree care business. Learn how to develop a comprehensive business plan, implement an employee handbook, refine safety policies, and integrate standard operating procedures (SOPs) to improve efficiency and compliance.

Gain insights into navigating legal requirements, aerial rescue and driver training, and CDL compliance to safeguard your team and your business. Discover best practices for hiring and retaining top talent, fostering career progression, and leveraging customer relationship management (CRM) systems to enhance client satisfaction and loyalty.

Attendees will also learn how to craft clear, detailed written proposals with defined terms and conditions to set their company apart from the competition. As a subject matter expert (SME), you'll walk away with actionable strategies to streamline operations, strengthen workforce development, and position your company for long-term, sustainable growth.

CEUs earned TBD

Speakers:

Kris Rasmussen

Presented by The Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop®
Location: The Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop® Booth

CEUs earned TBD

Speakers:

Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop®