TCI EXPO 2019 post-show recap

TCI EXPO just wrapped up, and it was the Tree Care Industry Association’s (TCIA’s) biggest show ever. Held Nov. 7-9 at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in Pittsburgh, Pa., TCI EXPO 2019 drew more than 4,000 tree care professionals from around the globe for three days of business, safety and arboriculture workshops and seminars. While there, they also had the chance to see live tree climbing demonstrations; engage in networking opportunities; compete in skills competitions; visit the brand-new Unboxing Ring; and the chance to visit 250 plus exhibitors showcasing the latest tree care products and services.

 

Pre-conference

Before the official unveiling of the tradeshow floor of TCI EXPO there were full-day pre-conference workshops and education. This year’s pre-conference workshops included; sold-out CTSP, Crew Leader Qualification, and Crane Crew Training Workshops, as well as an EHAP Workshop, a PHC Strategies Workshop, and a TCIA Accreditation Workshop.

 

Welcome reception

This year, the welcome reception was held in the Great Hall at Heinz Field, home of the Pittsburgh Steelers. While there, attendees had opportunities to network with one another, take a tour of the stadium, or head out onto the bleachers for a picture. The event was a huge success

Photos provided by TCIA

thanks in part to Vermeer for helping host the event.

 

Unboxing Ring

New for TCI EXPO 2019 was the Unboxing Ring. The Unboxing Ring provided attendees a chance to see the newest climbing and rigging gear right out of the box and in action. TCIA’s industry training experts used an overhead truss system to demonstrate the capability of these products.

The companies featured in TCIA’s first ever Uboxing Ring were; Ronin, All Gear, Inc., Teufelberger, Pelican Rope, Samson Rope, LogOX, and Petzl.

 

Skills Arena

Back for 2019 was the Skills Arena. The skills arena had teams of three to four competing in a variety of skill set games including chain saw use, climbing and rigging. The instruction and demonstrations were provided by TCIA Crown PACT partner North American Training Solutions.

All teams were fantastic competitors, but only a select few came out on top. Winners received a prize bundle of some incredible arborist gear including rope, PPE, and more!

 

Student Career Days

In addition to the trade show and conference, TCI EXPO hosted a Student Career Days (SCD) event, which drew over 150 students from 20 college and vocational students from across the country. These students were given the opportunity to network, attend educational sessions, and explore potential career paths.

While at SCD the students participated in a wide variety of events such as; a discussion panel with tree care industry experts, participating in skill-based activities, attending a job fair, and so much more!

On the final day of SCD we revealed the Gear Up powered by Stihl winners. The winners for 2019 were:

  • Allegany College of Maryland, Cumberland, MD
  • Clackamas Community College, Oregon City, OR
  • Huntly College of Agriculture, Ponoma, CA
  • University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH
  • Southern University and A&M College, Baton Rouge, LA

Congratulation to this year’s winners! Be sure to keep an eye on OutsideCareers.org for more information about when the 2020 applications will be accepted.

 

Join the Tree Care Industry Association in Baltimore, Md., next year for TCI EXPO 2020. It will take place from October 29-31, so mark your calendars.