Forest Technician Curriculum Summit Brings Educators and Industry Together at Brewer High School

On June 18, Maine TREE welcomed educators, forestry professionals, workforce development partners, and industry representatives to Brewer High School for the Forest Technician Curriculum (FTC) Summit. The event marked an important milestone in the year-long professional development initiative focused on creating a Forest Technician Credential that prepares high school students for careers in Maine's forest economy.

The Summit brought together a diverse group of collaborators who have spent the past year working together to ensure the curriculum reflects educational practices and the needs of Maine's forest industry. Through ongoing feedback and collaboration, participants have worked to build a curriculum that provides students with career-connected learning experiences leading to an industry-recognized credential that, in turn, supports the workforce across the state.

Throughout the day, participants reviewed progress made in the first year of development and discussed how the curriculum is taking shape through collaboration between educators and industry professionals. Activities focused on curriculum implementation, industry alignment, and preparing students with the knowledge and hands-on skills needed to pursue careers in forestry.

Despite the rainy weather, participants stepped outside to explore portions of the curriculum firsthand. Educators participated in a tree identification activity and learned how programs like the Forest Ecology Research Network (FERN) can be incorporated into the classroom.

The Summit also included a tour of Brewer High School's forestry and outdoor education programs. The tour highlighted how hands-on learning experiences, including the Forestry Immersion Program, a 6-week summer program for high schoolers started by the Brewer School department in 2023, and other outdoor education opportunities, have already helped students develop practical skills as they explore career pathways in Maine's forests.

By bringing educators, industry leaders, and students together, the FTC Summit reinforced the importance of collaboration in building educational experiences that prepare students for their futures. As the curriculum continues to develop, relationships like these ensure that students gain relevant skills, meaningful outdoor experiences, and a stronger connection to Maine's forest industry.

Maine TREE is thankful to everyone who contributed their time, expertise, and participation throughout the curriculum's development. These partnerships help to define the next generation of Maine's forest workforce through innovative, hands-on education. To learn more or get involved, visit www.MaineTREE.org/education