Executive Director's Outlook - Summer 2025
By Rose Epperson on Monday, June 30, 2025
Beyond the Sessions: Where Arboriculture Connects
Coming home from our 91st Annual Conference in Tucson, I keep thinking about the conversations—the ones that happened in the hallways between sessions, over coffee, during shared rides, and beneath the Arizona sky. This year’s theme, “Branching Out,” wasn’t just a slogan—it was an experience. We expanded our networks, opened ourselves to new perspectives, and grew in our understanding of how to meet the moment in our profession.
From field arborists and municipal leaders to consultants and students, attendees left with actionable tools—strategies for integrating risk assessment into everyday operations, insights on managing urban forest data, and conversations about how to position our industry as essential to climate resilience and livable cities. The Spanish language track, deep dives into pruning, planting, safety, and forward-thinking discussions on technology, all pushed our practices and mindsets in meaningful ways.
One of the strongest takeaways? We’re better when we’re connected. Whether it was an idea sparked by a session, a referral exchanged in the expo hall, or a renewed partnership with a vendor or colleague, the relationships built in Tucson will shape business decisions, team development, and client conversations long after the event.
And let’s not forget the “sidewalk CEUs”—those innovative, immersive, and spontaneous moments of learning that took place between sessions, out on the plaza, or walking to dinner. Sometimes the most powerful takeaways came from a shared story, a challenge voiced, or a new connection made under the desert sun. That’s where our community really shines.
We also celebrated the individuals who have gone above and beyond for our profession. Congratulations to our 2024 Award Recipients! Your contributions inspire us all and reinforce the purpose-driven work we do. (You’ll find a full spotlight on this year’s honorees in the award section of this issue.)
As we look ahead, I want to extend heartfelt thanks to President Sarah Maitland for her leadership, energy, and unwavering dedication to the chapter. She represented Arizona—and our entire membership—with poise, vision, and heart. It was truly special to host this year’s conference in her home state.
I also give a sincere thank you to Conference Co-Chairs Beverly Babb and Monika Hemingway, along with the local committee, whose thoughtful planning and hospitality brought the true warmth and spirit of Tucson to life.
A special shoutout goes to the Epicenter team, whose behind-the-scenes coordination, creativity, and hard work helped bring the Tucson conference to life. Thank you for making it all run seamlessly.
Now that we’re back at our desks, trucks, and job sites, the real work begins—putting what we learned into practice. Revisit your notes. Reach out to someone you met. Write an article for this magazine! Share a session summary with your team. Growth doesn’t stop when the conference ends—it continues when we apply, adapt, and collaborate.
Thank you to everyone who made this event possible—our speakers, volunteers, sponsors, exhibitors, and each of you who showed up ready to learn, share, and connect. My team has also returned to their desks, coordinating workshops, webinars, exam and special events. All with your professional growth at the core of our efforts. Let’s carry this momentum forward.
We’re thrilled to welcome Tracey Takeuchi as the new president of the Western Chapter. Her passion and perspective promise to guide us into an exciting new chapter of leadership. With “full circle arboriculture” as our theme, we look forward to a year of thought-provoking education and meaningful connections—set against the breathtaking backdrop of Yosemite Valley’s starry skies.
Until next time—keep branching out.
Cheers to Trees,
Rose