Adult Programs

IAA Careers in Arboriculture Demonstration Event

Learn about careers in tree care with a demonstration and networking event at The Morton Arboretum.

Content Detail

Discover meaningful, exciting careers working with trees at this full-day event hosted at The Morton Arboretum in partnership with the Illinois Arborist Association. Whether you’re a student exploring your options or considering a career change, this is your chance to learn directly from arborists, urban foresters, and other tree care professionals.

Talk with industry experts about their work, explore career pathways, visit exhibitor booths to learn about on-the-job training opportunities and career paths, and watch live demonstrations that bring the daily tasks of tree care to life.

Event Details

This event will be held at The Morton Arboretum’s Gateway to Tree Science on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

The day begins with a guided tram tour through the grounds and introduction to the day’s learning experiences.

The closest parking is in parking lot P-8 on the Arboretum’s East Side.

Lunch will be provided.

Registration

Cost: $25

Advance registration is required and must be completed through the Illinois Arborist Association website. Register online.

The cost of registration includes lunch, refreshments, and Arboretum general admission for the day.

Schedule of Events

8:00 to 9:00 a.m.
Welcome remarks and career fair

9:00 to 9:30 a.m.
Guided tram tour

9:30 to 10:00 a.m.
Tree Production at Arbordale
Pete Lisner and staff

10:05 to 10:30 a.m.
Urban Tree Research Labs
With Jake Miesbauer, Chad Rigsby, Meghan Midgley, Razieh Yazdani, and Colton Hoffman

10:35 to 11:30 a.m.
Climbing Arborist Careers
The Morton Arboretum crew

11:30 a.m. to noon
Lunch and career fair

Noon to 12:30 p.m.
Grand Garden and Tree Care tour
Rachel White and Daniel Miraval

12:30 to 1:00 p.m.
Tram tour of tree breeding nursery and research areas

1:00 to 2:00 p.m.
Arboriculture career demonstration stations

Tree Diagnostics (Soil, Root and Foliar Health)
Jen Morgan and Chelsie Abbott

Plant Health Care (PHC) Operations and Equipment
Jake Kulp and Chad Rigsby

2:15 to 3:15 p.m.
Root Collar Excavation Demonstration
Brianna White and Daniel Miraval

3:15 to 4:00 p.m.
Urban Forestry and Community Advocacy
Nate Paulus and Tricia Bethke

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