2026 Indiana Arborist Association Tree Climbing Championship

The Indiana Tree Climbing Championship provides a competitive but educational opportunity for working arborists to demonstrate and exchange new climbing techniques, increase the interaction between various firms and members in the industry, and provide positive public exposure for the profession. Professional tree climbing competitions that simulate working conditions of arborists in the field are held around the world to expand the platform for arborists to learn about the latest in climbing techniques and innovations in equipment. Showcasing the highest level of professional skills and safety, this learning environment also introduces the public to the skills professional tree climbing arborists must use for safe, professional tree work.

The contestants must compete in five preliminary events, Work Climb, Aerial Rescue, Throwline, Ascent Event, and Speed Climb. The contestants who accumulate the highest combined points total in the preliminary events earn the right to move on to the championship round, the Masters’ Challenge and awarded prizes from ArborMaster. ISA is still working on the planning of future International Climbing Competitions

Free Training Seminar: TBD

Sponsorship Opportunities: The Indiana Arborist Association introduced an Annual Sponsorship Program in 2023. Sponsors agree to a two-year commitment and receive annual benefits outlined on the IAA Annual Sponsor Program web page. If you are interested in becoming an Annual Sponsor with the IAA, please review sponsorship details and contact the IAA at info@indiana-arborist.org

Meal sponsorships are available as a ticket on the registration page and are greatly appreciated!

In-Kind Donations: If you have an in-kind contribution please contact the Climbing Competition Chair at alison@indiana-arborist.org

**As weather conditions can greatly impact this event, it is subject to postponement or cancellation. If the event of cancellation, a full refund minus Humantix fees, will be offered. All donations of registrations and sponsorships are, of course, welcome.

***All in-state climbers must be current Indiana Arborist Association Chapter Members to compete.

Any climbers/volunteers registered before 8/31/2026 will receive shirts at the event. Any registrations received after 8/31/26 will get shirts, if available. Registration cut off will be 9/19/2026.

The IAA would like to introduce the Chair of the Climbing Competition, Alison Gresham, and her husband Brian. You will see them working hard at the ITCC so please say hello!



**PLEASE NOTE: If climber registration is filled ahead of the cut off date, registration will be closed early. Volunteer registration will remain open until the cut off date.