Discover the rewards of growing a variety of plants to feed your family and beautify your surroundings.- Create unique floral designs for all occasions.
- Explore the many aspects of the landscape industry, including the operation of various types of equipment, development of water features, and the principles of landscape design.
- Become an innovative greenhouse grower specializing in production horticulture, aquaculture, and other sustainable environmental practices.
Job Titles – Career Pathways
11-9011.01 Nursery and Greenhouse Managers
27-1023 Floral Designers
37-1012 First-Line Supervisors/Managers of Landscaping, Lawn Service, and Groundskeeping Workers
37-3011 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers
41-2031 Retail Salespersons
45-2092 Farmworkers and Laborers, Crop, Nursery, and Greenhouse
LOCAL Gardening Helper
CTC knowledge transfers to college credits at:
Harrisburg Area Community College
Pennsylvania College of Technology
Westmoreland County Community College
Student Certifications
NOCTI – National Occupational Competency Testing Institute Certification
* Applied Horticulture
OSHA Safety Certification
➤ For more detailed information about this program, including the grading policy, task list, etc., please refer to the course syllabus.
Instructor – Mrs. Amy Michalski
Biography
I am a graduate of Reading High School and Reading Muhlenberg CTC in Horticulture. While in high school I discovered my love for all things Horticulture. I loved making flower arrangements, planting seedlings and working with my hands on projects outside like my family pond. During my career I noticed how much I enjoyed teaching others things I had learned in Horticulture and decided to make a full circle and come back to where it all began at RMCTC. I am married and have 2 children that keep me busy in their out of school activities.
Education
Bachelor of Science, Ornamental Horticulture/Floriculture from Delaware Valley University
Work Experience
I started my career with Co-op through RMCTC at Riverview Gardens and Gifts. I worked there for 10 years and grew as a florist and sales associate for the garden center and landscaping. I continued my love for horticulture by working at Royer’s Flowers and Gifts as a manager in training, later working my way through the company at various locations as an assistant manager and manager. Starting back at RMCTC in 2021 helping as an instructional assistant in many classrooms including Horticulture.
Hire Date: 2024 (Horticulture Teacher), 2021 (Instructional Assistant)
Community Service
I have donated my time to various organizations throughout the years. I am the FFA advisor to the students that I teach, we do various community activities as well as local competitions
SOAR programs of study prepare today’s student for tomorrow’s high demand and high wage careers.
English 
Spanish