Insights • March 31, 2025
Is Vegetation Management a Good Career Path?
Vegetation Managers play a critical role in Milhouse Forestry’s day-to-day operations. These team members work directly on-site, supervising the vegetation management crew to ensure that all tasks are carried out efficiently and safely. They not only enforce safety protocols to protect the team and the environment but also provide hands-on training and mentorship, fostering the professional development of our Milhouse Forestry team.
Hear from Cody Smith, General Foreman, as he discusses how Milhouse Forestry has contributed to his career development and what makes vegetation management a fulfilling career. Rachel Lochan, Talent Operations Partner at Milhouse Forestry, also provides insights into the recruitment process for the team and highlights what makes the culture at Milhouse Forestry stand out.
How did you get started on this career path?
A typical day as a General Foreman at Milhouse Forestry starts early with a safety briefing and job planning for the crew. I oversee vegetation management operations, ensuring that trees and brush are cleared efficiently and safely from utility corridors, roadways, or other project sites. I coordinate with clients, monitor crew performance, and ensure compliance with all relevant environmental and safety regulations. Equipment maintenance and troubleshooting are also part of my daily routine.
What’s your favorite aspect of working in vegetation management, and what do you find most rewarding about your work?
One of my favorite aspects is working outdoors and seeing the immediate impact of our efforts in maintaining safe and healthy landscapes. The most rewarding part is knowing our work prevents power outages, reduces wildfire risks, and protects infrastructure. It’s also fulfilling to mentor newer crew members and watch them grow in their roles.
“This field offers stability, competitive compensation, and numerous growth opportunities. It’s a great career for those who enjoy hands-on work, problem-solving, and being outdoors. There’s also a strong demand for skilled workers in vegetation management, making it a secure long-term career choice”
– Cody Smith, General Foreman, Milhouse Forestry
How has Milhouse Forestry supported your professional growth and development?
Milhouse Forestry has been instrumental in my growth by providing on-the-job training, leadership development programs, and certification opportunities, such as arborist training and safety courses. They promote from within, and the company culture encourages continuous learning. These resources have helped me advance from an entry-level position to a leadership role.
As a recruiter, Rachel Lochan knows firsthand what makes the culture at Milhouse Forestry unique. “We maintain a family-like atmosphere, which enables close-knit collaboration and the opportunity to make a significant impact in the field,” she says. “This balance offers our team members the opportunity to make meaningful contributions to projects while enjoying the security and support that come with a larger, well-established company. It’s the ideal environment for personal growth and professional development.”
Milhouse Forestry is committed to growing and developing the careers of its team members through our hands-on training and mentorship programs. We take pride in providing our team members with numerous opportunities to enhance their skills and embrace new challenges. Our commitment to professional development ensures that everyone can thrive in their role and advance within our organization.
