How to become an arborist

How to become an Arborist

Becoming an arborist involves a combination of education, training, and practical experience. Here are the steps you can take to pursue a career as an arborist:

• Obtain a High School Diploma or Equivalent: While a high school diploma or equivalent is not always required, having a basic education is essential for understanding concepts related to tree care, biology, chemistry, and mathematics.
• Gain Basic Knowledge and Skills: Familiarize yourself with basic tree care principles, techniques, and equipment by reading books, watching instructional videos, or taking introductory courses in arboriculture or forestry. Look for opportunities to gain hands-on experience through volunteer work, internships, or part-time jobs with tree care companies or landscaping firms.
• Consider Formal Education or Training: While not mandatory, pursuing formal education or training in arboriculture, forestry, or horticulture can provide valuable knowledge and skills relevant to a career as an arborist. Community colleges, vocational schools, and universities may offer certificate programs, associate degrees, or bachelor's degrees in these fields.
• Gain Practical Experience: Seek employment or apprenticeship opportunities with tree care companies, municipal parks departments, or forestry agencies to gain practical experience in tree care operations. Start with entry-level positions, such as tree care technician or groundskeeper, and gradually work your way up to more specialized roles.
• Obtain Required Licenses or Certifications: Depending on your state's regulations, you may need to obtain licenses or certifications to perform certain tree care activities, such as climbing trees, operating chainsaws, or applying pesticides. Check with your state's department of agriculture, forestry, or environmental protection agency for specific requirements and regulations.
• Pursue Professional Certification: Consider obtaining certification as an arborist from organizations such as the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) or the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA). These certifications demonstrate your expertise and commitment to professionalism in the field of arboriculture and may enhance your credibility and employability as an arborist (see below).

Certifications
Arborists have the option to pursue various certifications to demonstrate their expertise and commitment to professionalism in the field of arboriculture. Some of the most recognized certifications for arborists include:

• ISA Certified Arborist: Offered by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), the ISA Certified Arborist credential is one of the most widely recognized certifications for arborists worldwide. To become certified, candidates must have a minimum of three years of full-time experience in arboriculture and pass a comprehensive exam covering topics such as tree biology, tree identification, pruning, tree risk assessment, and tree care practices.
• ISA Certified Tree Worker Climber Specialist: This certification is designed for arborists who specialize in climbing and working at heights to perform tree care tasks such as pruning, trimming, and tree removal. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in tree climbing techniques, equipment use, and safety practices through a practical exam administered by the ISA.
• ISA Certified Tree Worker Aerial Lift Specialist: Similar to the Tree Worker Climber Specialist certification, this credential focuses on the safe operation of aerial lift equipment, such as bucket trucks and aerial platforms, for tree care operations. Candidates must demonstrate their ability to operate aerial lift equipment safely and effectively through a practical exam administered by the ISA.
• TCIA Certified Treecare Safety Professional (CTSP): Offered by the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA), the CTSP certification is designed for professionals responsible for safety management in the tree care industry. To become certified, candidates must complete a comprehensive safety training program and pass a written exam covering topics such as OSHA regulations, hazard identification, and safety management practices.
• Qualified Tree Risk Assessor (QTRA): This certification is designed for arborists who specialize in tree risk assessment and management. Offered by various organizations, including the ISA, the QTRA certification provides training and assessment in tree risk assessment methodologies and techniques, enabling arborists to identify and mitigate potential tree-related hazards.
• State-Specific Licenses or Certifications: Some states may require arborists to obtain state-specific licenses or certifications to perform tree care activities, such as pruning, tree removal, or pesticide application. Requirements vary by state, so arborists should check with their state's department of agriculture, forestry, or environmental protection agency for specific licensing or certification requirements.