It’s a wrap! More than 400 tree care executives gathered in St. Thomas from February 2-6, 2025, for TCIA’s exclusive Winter Management Conference (WMC). This premier event is the ultimate opportunity for senior tree care executives to collaborate, connect, innovate, and elevate their businesses.
Attendees explored cutting-edge industry insights, game-changing business solutions, and market trends through sessions led by world-class speakers. Topics this year focused on succession planning, safety, and employee engagement.
A highlight of the event was the auction and dinner, where attendees raised over $200,000 for the Arborist Safety Training Institute—combining fun with philanthropy to support a great cause. Each year WMC hosts an annual TCIA Foundation Robert Felix Fishing Tournament or Golf Tournament.
During the conference, TCIA’s Board of Directors also met and presented the 2024 TCIA Awards, recognizing exceptional contributions to the tree care industry. Here are the winners:
- Award of Merit – Tad Jacobs, Owner of TreeMasters in San Rafael, California, for his exemplary leadership and commitment to mentorship, setting a high standard in arboriculture.
- Pat Felix Volunteer of the Year Award – Derek Furry for his tireless efforts in mentorship and community service, enriching the industry and beyond.
- Chair’s Award – Dave Scharfenberger for his unwavering dedication to education, collaboration, and professional growth within the field.
Each year also TCIA recognizes individuals and companies for their exceptional commitment to safety in the tree care industry. The Outstanding Individual/Crew Performance Award honors heroic actions in preventing accidents, while the Outstanding Company Contribution Award celebrates proactive safety programs. Click here to meet the Safety Award winners!
Please join us in celebrating these outstanding individuals for their remarkable achievements!
TCIA’s signature events like WMC and TCI EXPO offer training and networking to help tree care professionals advance their companies. Make sure to check out the sites and sign up to be notified of upcoming events. For more information on TCIA’s annual awards, click here.
