A professional arborist is an expert in the maintenance and health of trees. This professional is extensively knowledgeable about trees and shrubs. They use their knowledge to make sure that individual trees are healthy.

Among the related services that a professional arborist offers include diagnosis and treatment of diseases and parasites in trees. They also cut dead tree branches. An arborist can also remove a tree if it is felled by a heavy storm or dead. People hire arborists to prune shrubs and trees for safety and decoration purposes. Here are the steps to follow if you want to become a professional arborist.

Earn a University Degree

A university degree is not always a requirement. However, some property owners prefer arborists with a university degree. Arboriculture associate programs include courses in plant pathology, community forestry, and soil fertility. Some students are also taught about turfgrass management. There are also bachelor’s programs in urban forestry or forestry. These include courses in forest ecology, soil science, and botany. It’s also important that you complete your internship to gain hands-on experience. Internships provide a chance for honing skills and preparing for full-time work.

Acquire Experience

Some arborists receive on-the-job training by working with nurseries, tree care companies, municipalities, landscaping companies, and utilities. After securing employment, such arborists interact with different clients. They identify trees and clear debris by pruning shrubs and trees. An entry-level arborist gets a chance to learn how different tools are used to maintain trees. Municipal, utility and commercial ground workers start at the entry-level position too. If you wish to become an arborist by receiving on-the-job training, you need to have leadership skills. Most employers need arborists that can manage a team. Therefore, communicate effectively with clients, management, and peers to build and strengthen your leadership ability.

Get Certification

Some employers prefer working with arborists that have the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) certification. To be certified by the ISA, you must sit a credentialing exam. Candidates should acquire experience of at least three years. Nevertheless, candidates with an associate’s degree require two years’ experience only. An applicant with a bachelor’s degree only should have an experience of one year. Utility and municipal specialists, tree worker climber, and tree worker aerial-lift specialists can have additional certifications. You can also get a Master Arborist designation from ISA. It’s crucial to note that you must renew your Certified Arborist credential every 3 years. Re-certification qualification requires individuals to obtain 30 units of continuing education and pay a fee.

Tips for Improving Your Career Prospects

You can improve your career prospects by acquiring a certification to spray insecticide on bushes and trees if your employer or state requires it. Because arborists often work in areas with a dense population, it’s important to know how to prepare sprays and operate mist blowing equipment. You also need to know insects and bugs that are bad or good for plant health. This will enable you to identify infestation correctly and provide appropriate treatment. The agriculture department in your state can provide this information or training.

The Bottom Line

An arborist can qualify for an entry-level position with just a high school diploma. However, a bachelor’s or associate’s degree in forestry, arboriculture, or horticulture, as well as, professional certification by the International Society of Arboriculture can help.

Learn from the best, we interviewed a professional Arborist from Tree Service Regina to gather this information for our visitors.