Staffing solutions

In this month’s issue, we examine the horticulture labor market through a different lens: education, training and community outreach.

Our cover story follows the American Landscape Institute, a horticulture program that marries on-the-job training and classroom instruction. ALI was founded by Andreas Grothe who completed a horticulture apprenticeship in Germany. He wanted to start something similar in North America and was able to find industry partners and the Community College of Baltimore County to help make it happen. When students graduate from the two-year program, they’re armed with a certificate in Landscape Installation, Maintenance and Design, gainful employment and zero debt. Flip to page 16 to read about the success of this exceptional program and how these graduates are ready to be the next generation of horticulture leaders. Perhaps you can help start a similar program in your community.

On page 22 Jazmin Albarran, executive director of Seed Your Future, discusses how the industry (and her organization) can help steer people toward careers in horticulture as so many people have left their jobs during the Great Resignation.

“Millions of people through the pandemic in the last two years have discovered a new love and passion for plants. Now how do we connect those people to the knowledge that all of these careers exist,” she asks.

Please turn to page 28 to learn more about second-chance programs and hiring people with felony convictions and formerly incarcerated individuals. The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society’s Workforce Development Program teach people (pre- and post-release) landscape skills. Did you know that more than 70 million people have a criminal record, and that more than 600,000 men and women are released from jail each year?

A report from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce states, “Society as a whole gains when ex-offenders are connected to employment opportunities and their communities in terms of reduced recidivism and development of human capital.” Will you consider a second-chance program?