Young Horticulture Professionals
A community for the next generation of horticulture professionals.
A community for the next generation of horticulture professionals.
CNGA's Young Horticulture Professionals (YHP) brings together emerging horticulture professionals who are eager to connect, share ideas and make the most of their careers. It's a community built around fellowship, personal and professional development, and opportunities to learn from one another through social events, leadership and mentoring.
YHP members also play an important role in introducing students to horticulture careers, bringing fresh ideas to CNGA and helping inspire the next generation of industry professionals.
Making Connections
YHP is about getting to know people in the industry and having fun along the way. From casual happy hours to inspiring retreats like LEVEL UP, members have opportunities to meet peers, exchange ideas and build relationships outside their day-to-day work.
These gatherings are a great way to hear different perspectives, find common ground and get more involved in the CNGA community.
Colorado Springs members at a recent YHP happy hour
YHP in the Community
YHP members also give back to the industry through student outreach, leadership opportunities and mentorship.
Plant Ahead
Plant Ahead connects horticulture professionals with high school educators to introduce students to careers in our industry. Through classroom visits, career fairs and tours of nurseries, greenhouses and garden centers, students get a firsthand look at the people, businesses and opportunities behind horticulture.
Our Plant Ahead Ambassadors are industry professionals who volunteer to share their experiences and career knowledge. Plant Ahead Educators are teachers who welcome these professionals into their classrooms to help students explore horticulture career paths.
High School Career Fairs
Plant Ahead Ambassadors attend career fairs throughout the year to meet students, answer questions and introduce them to the wide range of green collar careers available in horticulture.
Board and Committee Participation
YHP members bring new perspectives and ideas to CNGA through involvement with our board, committees and educational programs.
Mentorship
YHP helps connect emerging professionals with experienced business owners and managers to share knowledge, offer guidance and build professional relationships.
Get Involved
Interested in helping students discover horticulture, attending YHP events or keeping up with our activities? There are several ways to participate:
Attend a YHP Event
We host 3-5 YHP events each year. Check the events calendar for the next event near you.
View Events CalendarBecome a Plant Ahead Ambassador
Volunteer to share your career experience with students through classroom visits and other outreach opportunities.
Sign up as an AmbassadorBecome a Plant Ahead Educator
Bring horticulture professionals into your classroom to introduce students to industry careers.
Sign up as an EducatorSign Up for Our Quarterly Newsletter
Stay informed about YHP events, Plant Ahead activities and opportunities to get involved.
Sign up for Plant Ahead NewsletterOther questions or ideas? Contact Meg Amendola at mamendola@coloradonga.org. We'd love to hear from you.
