by KYW's Dr. Marciene Mattleman

Those who never completed high school or who have a diploma yet have a hard time finding work, have a wonderful opportunity at Awbury Arboretum—preparing them for careers in horticulture, arborculture and the green industry.
 
Awbury Apprentices is a 9 to 12 month training program introducing young men and women, 18-24, to best practices of horticulture and landscape management on its beautiful 55 acre site, right in the heart of Northwest Philadelphia.

Participants work 30 hours a week with an hourly wage which increases with experience. They also have a chance to put their newly acquired skills to work and gain on-the-job training with Awbury Landscape Services, the Arboretum’s for profit subsidiary.

Those who complete the program are encouraged to go to college or are guided to internships and careers in professional land management, urban forestry, horticulture and related disciplines.

As institutions are required to become green, conservation and developing a healthy ecosystem are gaining importance and entrance into newly emerging fields in a no cost program is a great opportunity.

Learn more at www.awbury.org.