Is becoming a Certified Arborist possible for me?

NHlocal

Hello,
I have been looking into what is required to become a certified arborist.
It seems like a lot and a little overwhelming. I am married with a son and
working full time as a machinist. I have been cutting trees for 15 years (from
the ground) and climbing up in and cutting them for going on 2 years. I enjoy
the work and learning more about the craft. From the point of view of some-
one who has already gone through it, is possible for someone in my position to
become certified?? I greatly appreciate any and all feedback. Thank you, work
safe.
NHlocal.

Brent Ferris

If you care enough, and want to do it badly enough, are in good physical condition, and finances, family, and time don't get in the way, Yes - you should be able to,.
However, a machinist job is likely almost recession proof, arborists are not. In a recession, tree work is one of the first jobs to go, and one of the last to come back. Unless it is an emergency, tree work can be put off.
Additionally, not many people climb past 50 years of age-- it is an arduous job, hard on the back, legs, feet, arms and often hips; the time to retire from machining is considerably more vague-- into the 80's if you choose.. If you do more dangerous work -- tall trees in tight places, dead trees, hazardous trees -- the chance of being injured, and seriously --or dying is always present.
The occupation has its own thrills, and requires a substantial knowledge base but is considered among the top 5 most dangerous occupations. Check out the idea, and talk to more arborists before you switch tracks

__________________
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If you want an honest opinion, call Brent Ferris...because, Trees want to Live Too !
We do great jobs, even in small yards.

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derwoodii

I did it last year, I have many other qualifications in Arb yet still found it worthy enjoyable nicely weighted. It takes time to read and practise the book chapters and you need to commit to that. Plus the ongoing $ cost of ISA membership, best explore this 1st before you press on, but in all I would recommend.
Doing it with a study buddy will assist to over come any motivation issues and help you both with the review and practise tests so ask your tree work colleagues if any want to team up.
In OZ we are lucky with many other forms of Arb education for USA it likely your best choice but dig around your local tertiary campus they may have better or similar Hort/Arb studies to offer.

NHlocal

derwoodii,
Unfortunately I don't know anyone around here that has any interest in
learning about arborist work. I'm pretty much on my own, but I don't think that's a problem. Do you know, is the information I'll need to study available online(free download) or do I have to purchase it? Are there different levels of arborist certification? Once again, I appreciate any and all feedback. Thank you, Work Safe.
NHlocal.

derwoodii

Every things on line just dig it up under ISA that offer many levels of certification and yes they cost, some say a $ stitch up others reckon good value.

Another option if your got an interest in Arb just sit back spend some time reading the facts pages here. Tons of info all free Tree Information and Facts - Tree World

NHlocal

derwoodii,
Thanks for the reply and the suggestions, I really appreciate it.
I'm gonna start diggin' tonight. Thanks again. Work safe.
NHlocal.