Wednesday, August 12, 2026
CVTC instructor recognized for advancing sustainable landscaping
A Chippewa Valley Technical College (CVTC) instructor is being recognized for helping cultivate a more environmentally conscious generation of landscape and horticulture professionals.
Sean VanderWaal, program director and instructor for CVTC’s Landscape, Plant and Turf Management program, has been selected as a 2026 Eau Claire Biodiversity Steward Award recipient. The award recognizes his leadership in environmental stewardship, native plant education and community engagement.
The Chippewa Valley Biodiversity Partnership Leadership Circle and Eau Claire Area Master Gardeners Board selected VanderWaal for his work educating students and community members about the role native plants can play in supporting pollinators, improving habitat and strengthening ecological resilience.
At CVTC, VanderWaal brings those lessons into the classroom, helping prepare students for careers in an industry that he expects will continue to grow as demand for skilled landscape and horticulture professionals increases.
“I am lucky to be in a position where I get to educate upcoming leaders in the landscape and horticulture industry,” VanderWaal said. “I firmly believe that the landscape industry and demand for skilled labor will continue to rise in the Chippewa Valley and Wisconsin, and I have the privilege of helping students understand how to approach this responsibility sustainably.”
His work also extends beyond the classroom. VanderWaal has played a leadership role in CVTC’s Native Plant Sale, helping community members learn about native plants and find practical ways to incorporate them into their own landscapes.
VanderWaal said organizations such as the Chippewa Valley Biodiversity Partnership are important partners in promoting environmental stewardship throughout the region.
“I am thankful that there are great organizations like the Chippewa Valley Biodiversity Partnership that promote the same message in our community,” he said.
VanderWaal and other 2026 Biodiversity Steward Award recipients will be recognized during the Biodiversity Celebration at 5:30 p.m. Aug. 24, at Phoenix Park Pavilion in Eau Claire.
