Sidney Armstrong

About Me
I grew up in Fergus, Ontario. Growing up I played hockey, kayaked, skied, and ran cross country. I enjoy backcountry canoe trips and I have been camping all across Canada.
 
Before I started planting, I worked on a couple farms, worked for the township, and did small construction projects.
 
I started tree planting as a summer job throughout university. I am currently in my 4th year of engineering at Carleton University. At university, I train at the gym, help run the kayak club and play hockey.
 
Tree planting has become one of my favourite activities. I look forward to every summer I get to spend working outside all day and living in some amazing, remote areas of western Canada. 
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Hobbies and Interests
  • Whitewater kayaking
  • Running
  • Hockey
  • Piano
  • Skiing
  • Judo and Muay Thai

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Planting Experience
This will be my second season as a crew foreman. Before running a crew, I was a tree planter for 3 spring/summer seasons with Summit. I was an assistant crewboss, a primary driver and a rookie trainer for 2 of those planting seasons. I have also planted a fall season in Nova Scotia. 

Expectations for my planters:
  • Positive Attitude: A positive attitude is imperative for my crew. Be open to new experiences and learning. There are going to be tough, challenging days throughout the summer. An enthusiastic, supportive crew will get through those days laughing and appreciating the adventure. Positive attitudes are extremely important!!!
  • Team Mindset: A crew is a team. Everyone needs to be supportive of one another. We will celebrate personal bests and small successes. We want to excel as a group and as individuals. 
  • Hard Working: In everything we do, the result is indicative of the effort we put forth. This is particularly evident in tree planting. It feels amazing when you get back to camp at the end of the day knowing you gave it your all. I expect my crew to work hard all season. 
  • Respectful: Be respectful of other planters, the management team at Summit, and the industry professionals we work with. Be aware of how your actions affect others; be punctual, helpful, and kind. 
  • Safety: Participate in keeping yourself and the rest of the crew safe. Listen to hazards that I talk about in our pre-work hazard meetings and ask questions if you are unsure how to manage any risks at camp or while planting. 

What to expect from me:
  • Positivity: I will maintain a positive attitude all season. I really enjoy tree planting and being outside all the time. I hope to share my enthusiasm for tree planting with the crew. 
  • Safety: We will work efficiently as a crew, while ensuring the safety of all planters. I will view blocks to locate and manage potential dangers. I will inform you of hazards and how to work safely. 
  • Preparedness: I will prepare blocks in advance to provide planters with the most planting time possible. I will be organized and have a clear plan for each day and shift. 
  • Training: I have been training beginner planters for 3 seasons. Throughout my planting experience, I have learned how to plant trees very efficiently and how to communicate that skill with others. I will train planters well to set you up for successful seasons. 
  • Communication: I will be direct and clear with instructions. I will be patient and ensure that you understand what needs to be done. I will always be approachable. I will do my best to answer any questions you might have. I would like to hear your goals for the season and work with you to achieve them. 
  • Hard Work: I will work as hard as I can to provide you with the opportunity to plant lots of trees. I want you to be able to succeed as planters.