In the 1970s, Tim Ard developed a passion for the small engine and outdoor power equipment industry, starting as a mechanic and advancing to a power equipment dealer. His journey led to national training, affirming his place in the field.

In the 1980s, Tim was inspired by Soren Eriksson, a Swedish chainsaw expert who shared his logging experiences in the U.S. Soren's work in developing training programs and designing innovative protective equipment significantly improved chainsaw safety and productivity. This motivated Tim to focus on training chainsaw and power equipment operators.

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“I want you standing next to me next time I play the lottery.” When he saw my puzzled look, the old Swede smiled and continued, “You cut trees like that and you’re still alive? You’ve got to be one lucky SOB!”

Bryan Hunt (student)

Tim and Soren’s collaboration
continues to have a positive impact on the industry even now.
19902000

In the early 1990s, Soren and Tim founded Game of Logging, Inc., while Tim started Forest Applications Training, Inc. They created a training program for arborists called ArborGames, which later became ArborMaster Training, focusing on tree care education. Tim and Soren designed innovative personal protective equipment and tools that gained popularity among both casual and professional users in the USA.

In the early promotion of Soren Eriksson, chain saw manufacturer, Tim Ard developed training materials, articles, newsletters, and websites while coordinating with organizers, dealers, and users for training events.

In 1997, Laura Ard joined Forest Applications, strengthening the link between training and organizers to maximize benefits for participants.

Through the 2000s

  • Group of six outdoor workers wearing safety helmets and gear, standing on a dirt trail in a wooded area, listening to a guide.
    Continued teaching.

    Over his lifetime, Tim trained over 70,000 students how to safely operate chainsaws.

  • Two people wearing headsets with microphones inside a cockpit, smiling.
    Traveled many miles.

    Tim and Laura traveled over 40 states year-over-year to cover the tremendous demand from various companies, organizations, and agencies.

  • Two men standing next to a cut-down tree in a forest, one holding a chainsaw and both wearing safety helmets and gear.
    Expanded his legacy.

    Tim freely shared his knowledge and passion by investing in a small circle of instructors so his legacy could continue be shared with generations of loggers and linemen to come.

  • A man with gray hair and glasses speaking into a microphone in a home office or studio setting.
    Nutured community.

    From one-on-one connections with students of the past and present to Thursday night saws, Tim always had time with those who shared an interest in learning more about sawing.

“I’ve known Tim for nearly 25 years, we met through a mutual friend at one of his training sessions. He was absolutely brilliant, when I left I knew I wanted to learn more from him. Tim became a mentor to me and I worked for him for a period of time, he invested many hours of his time into me and for that,  I will always be very thankful.Tim Ard, in many ways was a pioneer, a fantastic educator, and a man of God. He never wavered on his beliefs and his legacy lives through all of the many thousands of people he has trained on safe chainsaw operations. He will always be honored, acknowledged, and remembered as his training programs continue through Forest Applications Training.”

— David Breeden