The Nebraska Arborists Association (NAA) is proud to announce that Tom Wiens of Bayard, NE, has been awarded the prestigious NAA Lifetime Achievement Award, presented during the 2024 NAA Field Day on Friday, August 16, 2024. This award recognizes Tom’s enduring dedication to arboriculture and his significant contributions to the NAA over the years.
Tom Wiens’s journey in arboriculture began at a young age, working alongside his father at the Wiens Tree Surgery Company. These early experiences laid the groundwork for what would become a lifelong commitment to the care and preservation of trees. Tom pursued his education at People’s Bible College and further honed his expertise through extensive training, including Davy’s Tree School and mentorship under the legendary Alex Shigo. His passion and knowledge have not only benefited his clients but have also enriched the broader arborist community.
A trailblazer in the industry, Tom was among the founding members of the Rocky Mountain International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Chapter in 1974. In 1982, he moved with his family to the Panhandle of Nebraska, where he continued his professional journey, attending the NAA’s Arborist School in 1985 and later serving as the NAA President in 1992.
In 1985, Tom founded his own company, A-1 Landscape, which later became Modern Arboriculture, reflecting his commitment to innovative and sustainable tree care practices. His work has been concentrated in the southern half of the Panhandle and into Wyoming, where his dedication to tree health and integrity has earned him a stellar reputation.
Tom holds multiple certifications through the ISA, including Certified Arborist, Certified Tree Worker/Climber, and Certified Arborist/Municipal Specialist. He is an active member of the ISA, the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA), and the Nebraska Arborists Association.
Tom’s personal life is just as rich and rewarding as his professional one. He met his wife, Vickie, in 1978, and the couple celebrated 44 years of marriage in June 2024. Together, they have one son, Brian, who is married to Katy, and they are the proud grandparents of two granddaughters, Ana and Ivy. Vickie plays a crucial role in the business, handling secretarial duties, editing Tom’s writings, and assisting with tree diagnosis when needed.
Beyond his business, Tom has a passion for education, frequently teaching at local garden clubs and engaging with the Master Gardener program. His goal is to educate others on healthy tree care, a mission he fulfills through both his teaching and his widely recognized tree sample photography, which has been featured in Alex Shigo’s writings and Arbor Day Foundation videos.
Tom’s dedication to the field of arboriculture has left an indelible mark on the community and the industry. The NAA Board, Staff, and members extend their heartfelt congratulations to Tom Wiens on this well-deserved honor.
For more information about the Nebraska Arborists Association, please visit NAA’s website.