The Institute recognized that there are many individuals involved in forestry across Canada who are making outstanding contributions early in their profession. The award recognizes the contributions of those forest practitioners newer to the profession. It has the objective of encouraging excellence in the forestry profession. This award is named the James M. Kitz Award, after a person who was a member of Institute and the Alberta Registered Professional Foresters Association. Jim made several outstanding contributions to forestry early in his career , but suffered a sudden and untimely death at age 36. This award recognized the contributions made by Jim, both professionally and personally and is awarded to those who exemplify Jim’s approach to all aspects of life while making an outstanding contribution to forestry early in their career.