Next Level Learning: Bidwell Introduces New Plant Science Program

The green industry is growing, changing—and creating new career opportunities. Bidwell Training Center is changing right along with it.

Bidwell’s new Plant Science Technician (PST) program takes career training to the next level, giving students the hands-on skills and real-world knowledge they need to build careers in landscaping, turf management, tree care, and other growing areas of the plant science industry.

“The Plant Science Technician program is a strategic evolution of our historic Horticulture Technology program,” explains Dr. Ryan Gott, senior director at Bidwell Training Center. “The plant industry career landscape has shifted in our region towards a high availability of good opportunities in landscaping installation and maintenance, turf care, and tree care. This contrasts with the old program which had a large focus on ornamental plant production and design.”

Bidwell’s Plant Science Technician program is state-funded, and eligible Pennsylvania residents can enroll in the program at NO COST. Tuition, fees, uniforms, textbooks, and supplies are entirely covered—meaning zero student loans or out-of-pocket payments. “Whether a student already knows exactly what career they want or is still figuring it out, there is a place for them in this program,” says program instructor Scarlet Sparke. “Success looks different for every student. I want our students to leave knowing not only how to do the work, but why the work matters.”

The evolution reflects what Bidwell has always done best: prepare students for where the jobs are—and where the industry is going.

Even better, eligible Pennsylvania residents can receive this career-focused education at NO COST. The state-funded program covers tuition, fees, uniforms, textbooks, and supplies. That means students can concentrate on building their skills and preparing for a career—not figuring out how to pay for their education.

In about as long as it would take the Pittsburgh Penguins to complete a hockey season, you could have your Plant Science Technician Diploma - and you do not need prior landscaping or botany experience to get started. Bidwell’s comprehensive diploma program bridges the gap between classroom theory and real-world application. The curriculum dives deep into the essentials of the science covering:

Learning at Bidwell knows no boundaries and extends far beyond traditional textbooks. The program features immersive, instructor-led labs, practical projects, and a 4-week, 120-hour externship. This hands-on opportunity allows students to work directly with industry professionals in a real-world work environment, which builds confidence and establishes a professional network before you even graduate.

“The externship aspect of the program is invaluable,” says PST instructor Sara Chester. “Students gain an understanding of what daily processes look like for a specific organization. At the end they have a full picture of what a workplace will look like and how they should expect to act there, hopefully along with a strong connection they can use to find full-time employment.”

The Plant Science Technician program of study also focuses on developing the “soft skills” that all employers deeply value. “Throughout the program, students also strengthen communication, problem-solving, teamwork, adaptability, and the ability to continue learning. These are skills that help them succeed on the job and grow into greater responsibility over time,” explains Sonia Weese, PST head grower/instructor.