We’re committed to growing the capabilities of our people. We are building a learning community where employees can work with diverse individuals, explore the industry, and expand their capabilities. Our employees are teachers and learners who work out loud and share their knowledge to enhance each other’s growth.

Certification and continuing education opportunities are available to employees who are motivated to learn more about our industry. Some certifications are required, but most are optional to provide our employees ways to grow in the industry. Below are some certifications and continuing education opportunities that occur throughout the year.

All of these certifications come with reimbursement and most come with a pay raise upon completion.

 

Any Specialty

 

National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) Landscape Technician Certification: This certification includes specialities in maintenance, softscape, and hardscape. https://www.landscapeprofessionals.org/LP/Training/LP/training-certification.aspx

 
 
 

Winter Landscape Conferences: Allowed to attend one per year with two hotel nights and $40.00 for food each day.

 
 
 

Hardscape

 
 
 
 
 

Certified Concrete Paver Installer/ CMHA Certification: This certification will certify you to install interlocking pavers. https://masonryandhardscapes.org/certified-concrete-paver-installer

 
 
 

Uni-Lock Paving Certifications: https://utec.unilock.com/

 

Softscape and Maintenance

 
 
 
 

Foundation in Gardening Course: Online, study at your own pace. Must get a certification of completion. https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/foundations-in-gardening/

 
 
 

Master Gardener Certification at the UW: This site explains how to become a master gardener and gives a calendar of upcoming education events. https://mastergardener.extension.wisc.edu/

 
 
 

International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Arborist: https://www.isa-arbor.com/Credentials/Types-of-Credentials/ISA-Certified-Arborist

International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Master Arborist: Must be a certified arborist before applying to be a master arborist.

https://www.isa-arbor.com/Credentials/Which-Credential-is-Right-for-You

 
 
 

Monthly Plant Disease Talks through the UW: These are free and held online, but do require pre registration. https://pddc.wisc.edu/.

 
 
 

UW Grounds Short Course (Usually every Wednesday in February from 1-3 pm)