ISA is introducing new staff members who have joined its team to work on behalf of members and credential holders. In this issue of ISA Today, meet Trent Slaton, our learning product developer, and Shawna Armstrong, our graphic designer.

The ISA Annual International Conference and Trade Show and the International Tree Climbing Competition and Arbor Fair are impressive events that require a great deal of planning and preparation; however, none of it would be possible without the help of the many volunteers who gave their time and effort to ensure the week was a success.

Since 2003, arborists from around the world have participated in the Arborist Exchange Program. The Arborist Exchange Program offers municipal foresters, utility arborists and tree nonprofit managers the opportunity to engage with colleagues and experience urban forestry challenges and successes in varying political and cultural settings.

Each year, the current president of the ISA Board of Directors selects one or more individuals who’ve made a significant and positive impact within the industry. At the 2019 ISA Annual International Conference and Trade Show held in Knoxville, Tennessee (US), President Pedro Mendes Castro honored Brian Kane with the 2019 President’s Award.

Established in 2009, the ISA True Professionals of Arboriculture recognizes ISA members and credential holders who demonstrate dedication, skill and creativity in reaching out to their communities, clients, colleagues and employees to provide training and education about tree care and the benefits of trees.

Be a part of the action by volunteering for the North American Tree Climbing Competition (NATCC). The competition will take place 11 – 13 October 2019 at Balboa Park in San Diego, California. The NATCC is an exciting display of performance excellence and safe tree climbing practices. The deadline for volunteer registration is 13 September 2019. To learn more, please visit the volunteer registration site or contact ISA at itcc@isa-arbor.com.

Read the August 2019 issue of TREE Press for leading thoughts from TREE Fund President and CEO J. Eric Smith, the volunteer spotlight on Joanna Nakeff, who’s known as the “Mama Care Bear” to many of the Tour des Tress riders, and updates about the Tree Fund’s research and education awards. Find info about grant applications, upcoming webinars and more.