The Trees & Utilities Conference, which is hosted in tandem by the Utility Arborist Association and the Arbor Day Foundation, is adding an experiential learning component to the exhibit hall this year to provide attendees with the opportunity to showcase their skills and learn from others.
"Professionals come from all over to learn the best techniques and technologies in the field of utility vegetation management," said Dan Lambe, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. "This Skills Arena is another great example of how we are constantly innovating and finding new ways to provide the best experience at our conferences."
In the Skills Arena, teams of four are invited to sign up for specific challenges each morning on the trade show floor; challenges are first come, first serve and space is limited. Each one-hour session will include dynamic and engaging instruction and demonstration by North American Training Solutions (NATS) trainers. Teams will compete in one of two skill challenges: utility line clearance cutting operations and utility line clearance rigging operations. The teams with the safest and most proficient performance will win a prize package full of gear and equipment from the Safety Alliance Partners.
"The Trees and Utilities Conference provides the perfect opportunity for professionals in the industry to pick up new skills and share best practices," said Dennis Fallon, executive director of the Utility Arborist Association. "The Skills Arena will allow participants to receive training and education on utility line clearance cutting and rigging operations while encouraging teamwork."
The annual conference will take place in Milwaukee, Wis. from Sept. 20 to 22. Visit the website to learn more about the conference.
