This letter of reference is in regard to Nathan Stanford, certified chainsaw safety instructor, with Foresty Safety Instruction (FSI), LLC. I’ve worked with Mr. Stanford since 2016, during which time he has completed approximately 15 workshops ranging from levels I & II (annually) to levels III & IV (biennially) with a total of approximately 150 University of Wisconsin-River Falls (UWRF) students trained in chainsaw operation and safety. Many of those who have taken his workshops and graduated from our program have gone on to work in careers in forestry and/or management as technicians, arborists, restoration professionals, etc. for organizations ranging from local municipalities, conservation NGOs and non-profits, to state and federal agencies including the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and the U.S. Forest Service where they apply the chainsaw skills under the safety protocols learned in Mr. Stanford’s workshops. 

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Mr. Standford has always had positive reviews from students. He is cordial, patient, and even-tempered, all of which are very important assets an educator can have. Most importantly, Mr. Stanford is able to challenge students and help them overcome fears and apprehensions they have when operating a chainsaw. For many, this is their very first time holding a saw, let alone operating one. Every student is treated with respect and there is no judgement from Mr. Standford—he teaches with compassion. Very importantly, given the changing demographics in the field of forestry work, he assures that the women and non-gender conforming participants in the class are treated with respect and are given a strong sense of belonging. I have heard from a number of the women who have taken this course comment on how Mr. Stanford never judged their skills, ability, or even physical strength in the workshops. He makes sure that every woman in the class knows that they are capable of operating a chainsaw. 

Every student leaves the workshop much more confident and capable than when they started it. This includes those who have prior experience and those who don’t. I am confident and comfortable sending my conservation students to employers after they have taken the workshop with Mr. Stanford. I have received feedback from the Student Conservation Corps, U.S. Fish and Wildlife, DNR, etc. stating that the UWRF students who have completed the chainsaw training have been comfortable with the saw and capable of handling the work immediately upon being hired or after a brief refresher. 

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I have always highly recommended other local organizations invite Mr. Stanford for chainsaw safety workshops, including the River Falls Community Education Program and the local Nature Centers. I continue to share his contact information whenever other organizations ask me who I would suggest holding a chainsaw safety workshop. 

If more information is needed,