On 14 November 2025, at the Department of Landscape and Forestry Management of Sumy National Agrarian University, a spectacular master class in forest combat skills (Timbersport) took place — professional forestry competitions that combines strength, technical mastery, and athletic dynamics. The event not only showcased the practical aspects of logging but also revealed the modern, multifaceted nature of professions in the forestry sector.
Today, a forester is not merely a specialist who works with wood. This is a professional who understands ecosystems, cares about forest regeneration, applies modern technologies, and performs ecological, engineering, and managerial functions. It was this contemporary philosophy of the profession that the event’s organizers aimed to convey by combining technical demonstrations, athletic elements, and promotion of the degree programs “Forestry” and “Landscape Gardening and Park Management.”
The master class brought together students of specialized programs, department lecturers, and pupils who are planning to enter the university. Participants observed the techniques for performing key Timbersport elements — exercises that model real industrial processes and require precision, physical strength, and a high level of professional training.
Demonstration performances were delivered by students of the “Forestry” program, Ihor Komarytskyi and Yevhen Krasnikov — participants of international and national competitions. They demonstrated rapid assembly and adjustment of a chainsaw, techniques of horizontal and vertical cuts, as well as methods of precise log felling with strict adherence to safety regulations.
The demonstrations continued at the forest inventory training ground — a professional environment where theory turns into practice. Here, participants were introduced to modern requirements and algorithms for performing exercises in professional forestry disciplines, and they observed a level of technical mastery aligned with international Timbersport standards. Everyone present had the opportunity to see woodworking carried out with maximum precision, speed, and responsibility. This clearly demonstrated that forestry is a profession rooted in science, technology, and a high professional culture.
Particular interest was sparked by the participation of students in the dual education system, who are already employed in the forestry sector. For them, the master class became an opportunity to compare their own skills with professional standards, expand practical experience, and share insights with prospective applicants.
Summarizing the event, Professor Andrii Melnyk emphasized:
“The Department of Landscape and Forestry Management at SNAU consistently strengthens the practical training of students. Such demonstration events are an important tool for developing professional competencies and promoting forestry-related programs among young people.”
The master class convincingly demonstrated that SNAU is a place where strong, modern, technically skilled, and environmentally responsible specialists are trained — professionals ready to contribute to the development and preservation of Ukraine’s forest resources. Forestry professions are modern, high-tech, environmentally significant, and truly promising for young people.
