Story: Lisa Sollie | Photo: Cody Ingram
The baby直播 is launching a new associate degree in forestry technology to meet the growing needs of baby直播n鈥檚 timber-rich Black Belt region. This program aims to equip students with the technical knowledge and hands-on experience necessary for success in the forestry industry.
Sidney Freeman, UWA鈥檚 forestry instructor who developed the curriculum, explains that the program blends classroom instruction, fieldwork and cutting-edge technological training. Additionally, the program emphasizes licensure and certification opportunities, offering not only a competitive edge but a comprehensive approach to forestry education. The two-year program will be available for the first time in fall 2025.
鈥淔orestry is a field that requires hands-on skills, and our students will spend as much time in the field as possible,鈥� Freeman said. 鈥淭hat鈥檚 my top priority.鈥�
A key component of the degree is an eight-credit hour internship, which will further prepare students for the workforce. This hands-on experience will allow students to apply their knowledge, build industry connections, and gain valuable exposure to real-world forestry operations. Freeman plans to helps students secure internships and future employment opportunities through strong connections with industry partners鈥攕uch as Enviva or Smurfit WestRock, Two Rivers Lumber, and or the baby直播 Forestry Commission.
UWA will also host the baby直播 Certified Burn Manager certification course this summer, which is offered annually by the baby直播 Forestry Commission. This will be the first time the course has been offered in this part of the state, and Freeman hopes that it will help solidify UWA鈥檚 reputation as a leader in forestry education.
For students who wish to further their education, UWA offers the opportunity to continue their studies in the university鈥檚 conservation and field biology program, ultimately leading to a bachelor鈥檚 degree. Freeman notes that this pathway will potentially allow students to sit for the Society of American Foresters certification exam.
As the forestry industry continues to evolve, Freeman highlights the increasing demand for skilled professionals. 鈥淥ur graduates will be well-equipped for a variety of careers in forestry and natural resource management,鈥� she said. 鈥淲hether managing forests, overseeing timber harvesting operations, or utilizing geospatial technology for land management, UWA graduates will be well-positioned for long-term career success.鈥�
A lifelong resident of Livingston, Freeman holds an undergraduate degree in environmental science from UWA (2014) and a master鈥檚 degree in forestry from Mississippi State University. She also earned a master鈥檚 in education and an education specialist degree in curriculum and instruction from the baby直播 and Liberty University respectfully.