Forestry Technician

Program overview

Share your passion for the outdoors while conserving our forests, now and into the future! This accelerated two-year Forestry Technician Ontario College Diploma program is the most hands-on and field-oriented program of its kind in Ontario. It prepares students in the implementation and influence of best practices in forest management within an ecological, environmental, and social context. Students gain experience and skills alongside representatives of the forest industry, sustainable forest license holders, private woodlot owners, and government organizations at all levels. The program emphasizes outdoor learning, allowing students to explore various landscapes while collecting and analyzing forest resource data to ensure the health of our forests.

Program structure

The Forestry Technician program is designed to be completed in two years, delivered over three academic semesters. The program structure includes:

• Hands-on, field-oriented learning experiences.
• Significant outdoor class time exploring forests, parks, and private woodlots.
• Opportunity to earn a minimum of 10 customizable industry certifications.
• Completion of an 80-hour field placement in the third semester to practice skills in a real work setting.

This program is tailored to provide students with practical skills and knowledge essential for a successful career in forestry.

Featured Experiences

• Hands-on learning in various outdoor environments, including forests and parks.
• Collaboration with industry representatives, enhancing networking opportunities.
• Field placement to apply skills in a real-world context.
• Opportunity to earn industry certifications that enhance employability.
• Focus on current issues in forestry, such as species at risk and climate change.

Career Options

Graduates of the Forestry Technician program can pursue various entry-level positions in Canada, including:

• Tree Marking: Identifying and marking trees for management and harvesting.
• Wildland Fire Fighting: Engaging in fire suppression and prevention activities in forested areas.
• Ecosystem and Wildlife Assessment: Conducting assessments to monitor wildlife populations and ecosystem health.
• Tree Planting and Forest Renewal: Participating in reforestation efforts and managing forest growth.
• Sustainable Forest Harvesting: Implementing practices that ensure the long-term health of forest resources.
• Parks Management: Overseeing park operations and ensuring the conservation of natural resources.
• Nature Interpretation: Educating the public about forest ecosystems and conservation efforts.
• Arboriculture: Managing and caring for trees in urban and rural settings.
• Bio-Energy Management: Working with renewable energy sources derived from forest resources.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.