Faculty instruct on various aspects of tree care and so their credentials vary. Most instructors will at a minimum be a certified arborist. Some faculty will have a Master's Desgree and/or PhD.
The Indiana Arborist Association’s (IAA) Registered Arborist Apprenticeship (RAA) program is a three-year, paid apprenticeship opportunity for individuals looking for a career in arboriculture. On the job learning with a certified arborist, takes place over a three-year period totaling at least 5400 hours. The Related Technical Instruction curriculum spans three years and totals over 500 hours and is provided through a combination of Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA) on-line curriculum modules, in-person instruction by various subject area expert practiioners at Purdue Northwest campuses and utilizes industry professionals in IAA’s network.
Must be at least 16 years of age and be able to lift 50 pound and stand 3 hours at a time and/or walk 6-8 hours per day. Must be able to provide transportation to job sites and related technical instruction sites.
Cohorts begin in June. Applicants should contact program heads in December-March for consideration for the next cohort.
This program is currently funded by an Inflation Reduction Act grant. This grant, coupled with support for the Center for Workforce Innovations covers all costs of equipment and related technical instruction through the end of 2027. Apprentices work full time for an independent employer registered with the Indiana Arborist Association where on the job learning takes place. Related technical instruction is provided through a combination of online learning and some in person instruction that is provided by an approved provider in your region. RTI is mandatory and wages may be paid by your employer or alternately by funding, if avialable, through the Center for Workforce Innovations.