About

Event Description

Student Career Days (SCD) is an annual three-day competition and networking event for students enrolled in interior and exterior horticulture programs at two- and four-year colleges and universities from across the country. Each year, a different host location is selected, which gives the participants a chance to see different parts of the country and also increases the level of difficulty for some of the outdoor competitions. More than 800 green industry students demonstrate their skills in real-world, competitive events coupled with an outstanding Career Fair. Student Career Days provides green industry companies with unparalleled opportunities to meet and recruit next-generation green industry superstars.

In 2012, sixty-four (2 others were FFA schools, but they did compete) college teams, a total of 817 students, participated in 28 individual and team competitions, including tree climbing, paver/hardscape installation, wood construction, plant identification, sales presentation, exterior/interior design, irrigation troubleshooting, skid steer, personnel management, and small engine repair - just to name a few.

SCD/2013 will be at Auburn University in Auburn, Alabama from March 7 - 10. The host hotel will be the The Hotel at Auburn University. The majority of event activities will take place on the campus of AU.

Testimonials

"This is a great event for our students and they [were] excited," said Phil Allen, Ph.D, Landscape Industry Certified Manager, Brigham Young University–Provo professor. "Even with finals next week, they are focused on competing, opening doors, and talking to as many industry people as possible."

"We met several sharp future green industry leaders and look forward to speaking with them about possible internships and full-time employment. The economy has certainly created added budget pressures, but the students we met at Student Career Days will be in critical roles within our industry by the time the economy picks back up. This is a great time to train them and give them real-world experience. Austin Outdoor and YLG aren’t as big as the 'big boys,' but we are honored and excited to participate in PLANET events such as Student Career Days, Day of Service, and the annual PLANET awards." Brian K. Martin, VP Business Development, Austin Outdoor

How to Get Involved

1. Participate in the Career Fair: Promote your company's employment opportunities at the Career Fair. Student recruiting efforts and interviews may be formally arranged at your company's booth space. Be sure to register early for preferred booth location. (Registration for a Career Fair booth is separate from all other Student Career Days registration.)
   
   
2. Assist in Coordinating a Competitive Event: Assist with one of the 28 competitive events that range from Business Management, Arboriculture Techniques, and Skid Steer Operation to Sales Presentation, Wood Construction, and Landscape Plant Installation, and many more. Assisting with or donating materials for a competitive event includes one complimentary registration and your company name listed on the Student Career Days Web site and in the on-site program.
   
   
3. Attend Student Career Days as an Observer: See the students in action and take this opportunity to network on a casual level. This registration includes the Opening and Closing Ceremonies, attendance at the competitive events, as well as the Thursday’s Industry/Faculty Reception and lunch on Friday and Saturday.
   
   

Additional Information