Thursday 21 July 2016

The Making of an Arborist

Posted at 3:46 PM

At First Choice Tree Care, our Certified Arborists are the roots of our business. It's our arborists that come to your yard to plant, remove and treat your trees, so it's very important to us that they are well-prepared to bring your trees the best care possible. Preparation for our arborists comes from a 2-year or 4-year degree, primarily in forestry. When arborists are hired at First Choice, we supplement these degrees with continued learning from industry experts.

As part of our training program, we employ the skills of former State Climbing Champion, Aaron Schauer, in a 7-week training program for all new hires. During these seven weeks, Aaron creates a foundation of safety, skills and efficiency for each arborist.

Also a part of our team is Dr. Les Werner, a distinguished professor at the University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point. You may know Les from his contributions in our newsletter, "From the Professor's Pen". Dr. Werner is a leading expert in forestry and arboriculture and imparts his years of experience and research on our arborists, making them well-rounded, well-educated and better prepared to provide excellent service to our customers.

To better illustrate how First Choice trains an arborist, we'd like to introduce you to two of our finest: Travis Hansen and Ethan Lockhart.

Travis Hansen

Below: Travis Hansen removes tree damage.

Why did you decide to go into arboriculture?

Growing up on a Christmas tree farm, I have always enjoyed working outdoors and with trees. Becoming an arborist was just the next step for me. 

Describe your training as a First Choice employee.

When I first started at First Choice, I was able to only do the tasks I felt comfortable with. As training continued, I was placed into different situations that made me feel uneasy due to the dangerous nature of the job, however, I understood that was the only way to learn. Since then, I continue to learn everyday and feel much more comfortable when climbing trees.

What is your favorite part about your job?

My favorite part about my job is being outdoors and being able to climb trees everyday.

How do you strive to bring the best, most knowledgeable service to your customers?

I strive to bring the best service to my customers by not just cutting down tress, but by caring about the overall health of the tree. I like to be very scientific with tree work so customers can understand the many different aspects of a tree and those surrounding it.

Ethan Lockhart

Why did you decide to go into arboriculture?

I have always liked nature and being outdoors. What really convinced me to go into arboriculture is my grandpa's apple orchard. While growing up I enjoyed helping my grandfather prune his apple trees on his orchard in River Falls.

Describe your training as a First Choice employee.

When I first started at First Choice, I had a lot to learn. At times I felt overwhelmed with how dangerous the nature of this business is, however, since then I have gained lots of confidence. Although there is never-ending training, I continue to remain focused and always stay on my toes.

What is your favorite part about the job?

My favorite part about the job is being outside in all conditions with amazing views. Whether it is 80 degrees and sunny or 10 degrees and snowy, I love being outdoors. I am also a bit of an adrenaline-junkie.

How do you strive to bring the best, most knowledgeable service to your customers?

I strive to bring the best service to customers because I care a lot about trees. I love helping people take care of their urban canopy.

Left: Ethan Lockhart cuts down a tree.