TAMIU Faculty Member and RGISC Launch Free Arborist Training in Laredo

Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) Assistant Professor Dr. Amede Rubio, College of Arts and Sciences, Department of Biology and Chemistry, and Laredo’s first ISA Certified arborist, is helping strengthen local expertise in tree care through the Rio Grande International Study Center’s (RGISC) Adelante con Árboles project.

Dr. Rubio is teaching the inaugural ISA Certified Arborist Prep Course, a free 12-week program beginning Sept. 19, 2026, that combines classroom instruction and hands-on training in tree care, tree ecology and urban forestry. The course is open to environmental and tree-care professionals, educators, students and community members interested in expanding their knowledge of trees and preparing for the ISA Certified Arborist examination.

The need for trained tree-care professionals is particularly relevant in Laredo, where extreme heat, periodic drought and challenging urban conditions can place significant stress on trees. The training is part of Adelante con Árboles, RGISC’s three-year schoolyard forest initiative, which is planting trees and creating greener outdoor learning spaces at eight Laredo ISD schools while also helping build the knowledge and skills needed to care for those trees as they grow.

“Arborists are advocates for trees. We use science, training, and experience to help trees remain healthy, safe, and valuable parts of our communities,” said Dr. Rubio, “Training arborists is an investment in our community. The knowledge gained today translates into healthier trees, safer neighborhoods, and a stronger urban forest for future generations.”

Dr. Anjala Pyakurel, Project Manager for Adelante con Árboles, said the training supports the project’s broader goal of creating a community that is better equipped to understand, care for and sustain its urban forest.

“Through this training, we are not only increasing awareness about trees, the urban forest and the benefits they provide, but also building community capacity through practical knowledge and skills,” said Dr. Pyakurel, “Developing this local expertise is an important step toward a healthier and more resilient urban forest.”

For participants, the course offers an opportunity to gain practical knowledge that can extend beyond the classroom and into their schools, neighborhoods and community. Jaclyn Juarez, a participant and member of Scouting America, said the training is helping her better understand the role trees play in the environment and the community.

“Learning about trees will help me understand how important they are to our environment and our community,” Juarez said, She hopes to share what she learns with other Scouts and encourage them to identify, appreciate and protect trees in their neighborhoods.

By connecting professional arboriculture training with the schoolyard forest project, Adelante con Árboles is helping lay the groundwork for long-term stewardship of Laredo’s growing urban forest.

A limited number of spots remain available for interested participants. The training is free, with scholarships available to help cover learning materials and the ISA certification examination fee.

Community members interested in joining the cohort/ course can sign up here: https://forms.gle/mrWQB7gmY76zhQ9H6 

 Adelante con Árboles is a pioneering three-year schoolyard forest initiative designed specifically for our semi-arid South Texas border community, in partnership with Laredo ISD and funded by the Texas A&M Forest Service.