Schedule
WOW, what a schedule! Take a look at the incredible educational program we have scheduled for ArborEXPO™ ‘26. With 19 sessions packed into two days, plus pre-conference workshops, ArborEXPO™ ‘26 delivers serious value for tree care pros.
Pick up badges, meet the crew, and grab a coffee.
Location: Mallary Building
Presented by: Ed Gilman, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus
Pricing: Early Bird $275 | Regular $295
Capacity: Maximum 100 attendees
Location: TBD
Format:
- 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM · Indoor Instruction
- 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM · Lunch (Included)
- 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM · Outdoor Instruction
Florida ISA has developed a new qualification to raise the standard of arborist professionalism nationwide. The Prescription Pruning Qualification (PPQ) has already been achieved by more than 1,000 arborists across 25+ states, underscoring its value and credibility in the industry. This workshop highlights key principles from the program.
Morning Session: Build a common technical vocabulary aligned with ANSI A-300 standards through structured activities and interactive exercises—improving clarity around prescription pruning.
Afternoon Session: Concepts come to life with demonstrations and real-world examples, showing how the PPQ framework creates consistency, improves outcomes, and strengthens communication across crews and with clients.
Takeaways:
- A refined, repeatable process for prescription pruning you can apply immediately in the field.
- Practical tools for teaching and guiding production arborists.
- Strategies for clearly communicating pruning objectives and outcomes with tree owners.
- A stronger professional foundation built on nationally recognized standards.
Included: Indoor & outdoor instruction, lunch.
CEUs: TBD
Presented by: Hans Tielmann, NJ Crane Experts
Pricing: Early Bird $285 | Regular $305
Capacity: Maximum 30 attendees
Location: TBD
Format:
- 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM · Classroom Instruction
- 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM · Lunch (Included)
- 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM · Outdoor Instruction
This full-day workshop provides an in-depth look at grapple saw use in tree care, emphasizing safe operation, precision cutting, and efficient production techniques.
Morning Session: Four hours of classroom-based theory covering grapple saw types, their applications in arboriculture, safe operating procedures, production efficiency, and integration into modern tree care practices.
Afternoon Session: Hands-on field rotations using a grapple saw crane. Under guided instruction, participants gain real-world experience in:
- Grapple saw inspection and maintenance
- Debris handling and material management
- Precision cutting under controlled conditions
By the end of the day, attendees will walk away with both the technical knowledge and practical experience to operate grapple saws with greater safety, precision, and confidence.
Included: Indoor and outdoor instruction, use of grapple saw crane, and lunch.
CEUs: TBD
*Participants must bring their own PPE for the outdoor portion.
Presented by: Ed Carpenter, Director of Operations (NATS) + 3 NATS Team Members
Pricing: Early Bird $TBD | Regular $TBD
Capacity: TBD attendees
Location: TBD
Format:
- 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · Outdoor Instruction
- 12:15 PM – 1:15 PM · Lunch (Included)
Participants must adhere to NATS PPE requirements as outlined here:
PPE Requirements: Participants shall bring their own PPE which meets the following standards: Note: A PPE inspection will be performed prior to field training beginning, and NATS reserves the right to deny participation in course programming of any individual who they determine, in its sole and absolute discretion, lacks adequate PPE or is otherwise unfit to perform a given course task. PPE required for this course is as follows:
Mandatory ALL Participants
- Head Protection (ANSI Z89.1)
- Hearing Protection (Ear plugs or Muffs)
- Eye Protection (ANSI Z87.1)
- High Viz Shirt or Vest Class 2 (ANSI / ISEA 107)
Additional PPE for Hands On Participants
- Hand Protection (gloves applicable for the task)
- Chainsaw Leg protection-must cover to the ankle (ASTM F1897-2014 or newer: look for the UL label)
- Foot Protection (a sturdy work boot that supports to the ankle or above, or ASTM F2412 & F2413 protective footwear)
- Other PPE for specific site conditions or due to special requirements
Special Note: Certificates will be issued to all participants at the end of the class.
Location: Mallary Building
Presented by: Ed Carpenter, Director of Operations (NATS) + 3 NATS Team Members
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.
Intended Audience: Arborists, crew leaders, safety trainers, utility vegetation managers, climbing instructors, tree care business owners, and EH & S professionals.
CEUs: TBD
Presented by: Ed Gilman, Ph.D., 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: TBD
Presented by: Jim Ingram, President and COO, 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 traits that emerge when you understand, respect, and honor the experiences, thoughts, ideas, dreams, challenges, and opportunities of people who are both younger and older than you.
Leadership is lending a helping hand to build bridges between generations. Drawing from his father’s life and his own leadership approach — centered around “the last person hired” — Jim will explore how understanding your own life experiences can help you better connect with others, enabling stronger communication, collaboration, and empathy across generations.
This presentation highlights how we can develop as leaders when we Listen, Learn, and Lead. Jim’s book, Unlimited Duty — which chronicles his father’s accomplishments and the lessons that shaped his own character to live fully and honorably — will be available on a first-come, first-served basis and signed at the Bartlett booth.
CEUs: TBD
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: TBD
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: TBD
Presented by: Dr. Brian Kane, Ph.D., MAA Professor of Arboriculture, 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: TBD
The ArborEXPO™ tradeshow floor will be open to attendees during this time. Explore the latest equipment, technology, and innovations in arboriculture, connect with exhibitors, and experience live demonstrations throughout the day.
Presented by: Courtland Johnson
Location: Heli-Ax Demo Booth
This demonstration by Heli-Ax focuses on proper inspection and maintenance of personal protective equipment (PPE) for arboriculture professionals. Attendees will review common wear indicators, storage best practices, and compliance requirements to ensure their gear remains safe and effective in the field.
CEUs: TBD
Location: Demo Area
Join ArborTIMES™ for a special $500 cash giveaway and a raffle for $1,200 of Buckingham Gear! Attendees must be present in the Demo Area at the time of the drawing to win.
Must be present to win!
Presented by: Academy Trained
Location: Demo Area
Watch the team from Academy Trained demonstrate advanced chainsaw operation techniques in this live outdoor session. The presentation will focus on precision cutting, saw control, maintenance practices, and crew coordination for safe and efficient production.
CEUs: TBD
Presented by: Bear LeVangie
Location: The Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop® Booth
Self-care is not selfish. We have been given only one temple to live in, and that’s your body. Give yourself these 30 minutes to just be in the moment.
Take a mindful break from the excitement of the tradeshow with this restorative yoga and mindfulness session led by the team from The Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop®. This session focuses on grounding, breath awareness, and reconnecting with presence—helping participants cultivate balance and clarity both on and off the job site.
CEUs: TBD
Presented by: NATS
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: Bill Burley
Location: Heli-Ax Booth Demo
Join Bill Burley for this live demonstration highlighting modern rope and climbing system techniques. This session explores methods for improving efficiency, movement, and safety during single and double rope operations.
CEUs: TBD
Attendees can enjoy a delicious BBQ-style lunch — FREE with registration!
Presented by: Melissa LeVangie Ingersoll
Location: The Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop® Booth
When was the last time you shared the safety features of your chainsaw with a co-worker? Here’s an easy and fun way to remember and share your knowledge and most importantly to keep each other safer.
This engaging demonstration highlights chainsaw safety features using the COSMIC STAR approach. The Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop® team will break down the essential safety checks and practices every arborist should perform before and during use.
CEUs: TBD
Presented by: Carlos Rodriguez, NATS
Location: TBD
This session, presented in Spanish, will provide practical safety and training insights tailored for Spanish-speaking arborists. More details to come soon.
CEUs: TBD
Presented by: Jordan Oliver
Location: Heli-Ax Booth Demo
Organization is key for efficiency and safety in arboriculture. Learn how to prepare and pack your climbing and rigging gear for maximum workflow efficiency and minimum downtime.
CEUs: TBD
Location: Demo Area
Join ArborTIMES™ for another exciting $500 cash giveaway! Attendees must be present in the Demo Area at the time of the drawing to win.
Must be present to win!
Presented by: Academy Trained
Location: Demo Area
The Academy Trained team presents an advanced demonstration on efficient and safe climbing and rigging systems. Participants will see how different configurations and methods can drastically improve safety, communication, and productivity in the field.
CEUs: TBD
Presented by: The Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop®
Location: The Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop® Booth
We are in the rush of doing the work, and at the end of the day put the tool away. Come and learn what maintenance you should do daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly for your saw to perform at its best!
Proper maintenance extends equipment life and ensures safety. Learn step-by-step routines for inspecting and maintaining your chainsaw—from daily checks to long-term care.
CEUs: TBD
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™ Finals!
Cheer on the teams as they compete for prizes and bragging rights. The winning team will take home $1,000 cash and more!
CEUs: 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. Real-world examples will demonstrate how strong ground support improves safety, coordination, and workflow.
CEUs: TBD
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 improve an existing PHC department or establish a new one from the ground up.
Drawing on 25+ years in the green industry, the presenter shares 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 IPM and general applications
CEUs: TBD
Presented by: Mark Sedgley, Granum
Location: TBD
In this dynamic session, Mark Sedgley teams up with a local tree company to show how smarter systems help reclaim the workday. Learn how AI and integrated tools can 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
Leave with actionable steps to integrate tech into daily workflows — work more strategically, strengthen client relationships, and prepare your team for future challenges.
CEUs: TBD
Thank you for attending today’s sessions and demos. See you at the Welcome Reception!
Location: Basketball Hall of Fame
All are welcome! Enjoy free food, a cash bar, and exclusive access to 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 ArborAWARDS™! Join us as we recognize the individuals and companies raising the bar for safety, innovation, and environmental stewardship in the industry. Cheer on your peers and get inspired by their achievements.
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.
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: TBD
Presented by: Bill Burley, Heli-AX
Location: TBD
Bigger isn’t always better. This session reveals the hidden dangers of chasing high-priced projects that promise profit but deliver stress, safety risks, and reduced morale. Learn how to identify red flags, manage opportunity selection, and build sustainable growth.
Key Takeaways:
- Recognize the hidden risks behind high-dollar jobs that look profitable but aren’t
- Understand how chasing the wrong work affects safety, morale, and culture
- Discover strategies to evaluate opportunities with clarity and confidence
- Shift toward sustainable, long-term profitability
CEUs: TBD
Presented by: Kyle Donaldson, Harrison McPhee, Inc.
Location: TBD
Chippers are among the most common tools on tree care jobs, yet many workers have limited understanding of their operation and hazards. This session provides a detailed look at chipper function, safety practices, and hazard reduction to prevent tragic — and preventable — incidents.
CEUs: TBD
Presented by: Tawny Simisky, UMass Extension Entomologist, Landscape, Nursery & Urban Forestry Program
Location: TBD
This session reviews native and non-native insect pests affecting trees and shrubs, including identification, biology, and management strategies. Stay current on pest updates and strengthen your diagnostic and communication skills with clients.
CEUs: TBD
Presented by: Jared Abrojena, Academy Trained
Location: TBD
Building Strong Roots: Training & Assessment for Tree Care Success
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.
Presented by: Rebecca Seibel, Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop®
Location: TBD
The range of modern mechanical hitches has expanded rapidly, giving arborists more climbing options than ever. This session compares popular devices based on real-world field use to help climbers choose the right system for safety, comfort, and performance.
Topics include:
- Hardware and rope compatibility
- Rescue and safety implications
- Inspection and maintenance needs
- Expected lifespan and replaceable parts
CEUs: TBD
Visit exhibitors and explore the latest tools, technology, and innovations in arboriculture.
Location: Demo Area
Must be present to win!
Presented by: Bill Burley, Heli-AX
Location: TBD
Explore how to use angles to your advantage in rigging and climbing anchors through redirects, terminal points, and load sharing. Learn how to quantify and manage forces at anchor points for safer, more efficient setups.
CEUs: TBD
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: The Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop®
Location: The Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop® Booth
CEUs: TBD
Join us for an informal welcome session designed for students and first-time attendees to connect and network.
Presented by: Bill Burley
Location: Heli-AX Demo Booth
CEUs: TBD
Enjoy a complimentary BBQ-style lunch with your registration. A great time to network and refuel!
Location: Outdoor Full-Scale Model Work Zone
Join us outdoors as qualifying teams from the NATS Skills Arena™ go head-to-head in the first annual ArborSPORTS™ competition! Watch as teams compete in Chainsaw Cutting, Technical Tree Climbing, and Rigging Skills using NATS SafeTree™ Simulators (patent pending).
Prizes: $1,000 cash prize and more!
CEUs: TBD
Presented by: The Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop®
Location: The Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop® Booth
CEUs: TBD
Presented by: Ed Lai
Location: Heli-AX Booth Demo
CEUs: TBD
Location: Demo Area
Must be present to win!
Presented by: Bill Burley, Heli-AX
Location: Demo Area
Learn to design and implement mechanical advantage systems in everyday rigging and climbing. Discover how human effort compares to assisted systems, and practice safe, efficient setups using real equipment.
CEUs: TBD
Presented by: Paul Beister and Brick Reilly, Millburn Township Public Works Department
Location: TBD
Leadership begins with self-discipline and purpose. Join Paul and Brick as they explore how self-leadership drives influence, team alignment, and confidence in moments that matter most.
CEUs: TBD
Presented by: Jamie Chambrelli, CTSP, SavATree
Location: TBD
Explore the decision-making patterns that lead to serious climbing incidents. Learn how to recognize precursors to “The Big Four” and apply upstream controls to prevent falls before they happen.
CEUs: TBD
Presented by: Kristoffer Rasmussen, CTSP, TCIA Qualified Trainer, ISA Certified Tree Climber Evaluator
Location: TBD
Learn how to run a successful process-driven tree care business through SOPs, safety policies, training programs, and CRM systems. Gain strategies for efficiency, legal compliance, and workforce development.
CEUs: TBD
Presented by: The Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop®
Location: The Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop® Booth
CEUs: TBD
Thank you for joining us for ArborEXPO™ 2026! We look forward to seeing you next year.
Thanks to our sponsors, ArborEXPO™ attendees will enjoy:
- Welcome Reception sponsored by Sennebogen
- Arbor AWARDS™ sponsored by Altec
- Attendee Lunches (Both Days) sponsored by Bartlett Tree Experts
- Attendee Lanyards sponsored by Husqvarna
- Attendee Tote Bags sponsored by SavATree, Oakmont Capital, Bandit, & ArborEXPO™
- Morning Coffee sponsored by INTREN
- Student Career Track sponsored by Altec