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Utility Tree Trimmer
Technical Diploma
Why choose Utility Tree Trimmer?
- High demand for utility tree trimmers locally and nationally.
- Career offers stability and advancement opportunities.
- Strong wages and benefits.
Utility tree trimmers work to maintain critical utility infrastructure and ensure uninterrupted services throughout the country. It’s important, hands-on work and a rewarding career choice for those who love the outdoors.
Program Locations
Wisconsin Rapids Campus
500 32nd Street North
Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54494
Delivery:
In Person
Daytime
Part-Time
Varying Class Schedule
Length of Program: One Year
Credits: 16
Start Dates: Fall
Start at any time or campus by taking general education courses.
What You'll Learn
The Utility Tree Trimmer program is a one-year technical diploma embedded in the Arborist Technician associate degree. Students are trained in introductory electrical awareness and safety, electrical hardware identification, tree pruning, chainsaw use, climbing and related aerial tree work, tree identification, pesticide handling and application, and tree biology. Teamwork and crew leadership are also emphasized.
The program includes hands-on exploration and learning, and many classes are outdoors. Our unique aerial component ensures students gain experience while working safely in trees.
Outcomes
- Identify woody plants by common and scientific name.
- Apply tree biology for arboricultural maintenance practices.
- Adhere to industry safety standards.
Employability Skills
- Behave Responsibly: Ethical Behavior, Self-Responsibility, Conflict Resolution, Collaboration
- Communicate Effectively: Writing, Technical Documentation, Listening, Speaking, Interpersonal Communication, Reading
- Critical & Creative Thinking: Inquiry, Evidence Collection, Analysis, Reasoning, Reflection (Metacognition)
- Cultural, Social, & Global Awareness: Global Awareness, Social & Cultural Awareness, Social Responsibility
- Use Appropriate Technology: Use of Technology, Confidentiality, Security, Digital Civility
Learn more about employability skills at Mid-State.
Estimated Entire Program Cost
Cost based on the 2024/25 academic year.
- Tuition & Fees: $2,779.52
- Books: $0
- Supplies, Uniforms, and/or Exams: $40.00
- Total Estimated Cost: $2,819.52
Financial Aid Eligibility
This program is eligible for prorated Financial Aid based on length of program and/or number of credits. Aid may not be enough to cover all program costs.
Cost of Attendance
Learn more about Cost of Attendance, an estimated budget that includes categories of expenses a student can expect to incur while attending.
This course has options available to receive credit for prior learning (CPL) or work experience.
| Catalog# | Title | Credits | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10001118 | Landscape Plant Identification | 2 | |
| 10001124 | Arborist Skills Introduction | 2 | |
| 10001133 | Chainsaw Safety and Operation | 2 | |
| 10001173 | Pruning for Structure | 2 | |
| Term Total | 8 Credits | ||
| Catalog# | Title | Credits | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10001102 | Plant Health Care Applicator | 2 | |
| 10001110 | Tree Biology | 2 | |
| 10001125 | Arboriculture Operations 1 | 2 | |
| 10001108 | Electric Systems & Safety in Arboriculture | 1 | |
| 10001150 | Workplace Communication in Arboriculture | 1 | |
| Term Total | 8 Credits | ||
| Program Total | 16 Credits |
Instructors
JOE HOFFMAN, BS, MF
Joe Hoffman obtained his master of forestry from Virginia Tech and is a certified arborist by the International Society of Arboriculture. For over a decade he has coordinated travel for Midwest students to attend the annual Tree Care Industry Expo, helping to expose them to the same breadth of opportunities he’s enjoyed. He brings over 17 years of arboriculture experience to the classroom and keeps his skills current by working in the industry during the summer and attending conferences.
“I’m deeply rewarded when students fully grasp that this education is theirs…when they take ownership and pursue their passions with all their might.”
LUKE SCHEBERL, MS
Luke earned his MS in soil science from UW–Stevens Point. He also holds a BS in urban forestry. He is an International Society of Arboriculture Certified Arborist and a Wisconsin Certified Pesticide Applicator (3.0). His experience includes nearly 10 years in landscape/turf management, commercial tree care (climbing, lift, planting, and treating), tree inventories, soil assessment, and research. He taught for three years at Gateway Technical College in Kenosha before joining Mid-State Technical College full-time in 2021.
“Arboriculture isn’t just another job. It is a passionate industry where outside is your daily office and trees are your clients! We do have fun here!”
Careers
- Utility Arborist
- Tree Trimmer
- Utility Vegetation Management
- Tree Climber
- Consulting Utility Forester
- Right of Way Vegetation Management Specialist
Fast-Track
High school students are eligible to enroll in this program and all courses required. Learn more about Mid-State Fast-Track.
Take the Next Step
“Most students go to college to find good-paying careers doing something they enjoy. Mid-State gave me that and so much more as I discovered my passion and achieved more than I ever could have anticipated.”
BRYCE CRUNKILTON
GRADUATE
Choose Your Path
Career pathways help you take your education one step at a time to maximize your investment and make college fit your life. Earn a credential and start using it in the workforce. Continue with another stack of related courses to gain a more advanced diploma or degree. Explore this program’s pathway in the graphic below. For an even quicker first step to a degree or diploma, check out our short-term certificates.
Transfer • Dual Credit • Credit for Prior Learning
