Hello newbie to Horticulture

[DThumb]

Hello everyone!

I want to say I am looking foreword to chatting with you via this site.

What drew me to this site? Well I just lost my job a while ago and I decided I need a career change. One day I spoke to a tree climber at a Veterans career fair and I decided I want to be a tree climber or at least work as a Forestry technician (I also checked via USAjobs.com), but I have no background in horticulture (soil science I and II, identifying tree diseases, experience in forestry, etc) other than basic gardening. I am planning on attending adult continuing education classes at the New York Botanical Garden to learn basic Horticulture. In addition I am currently searching for affordable classes in Tree Climbing. My transportation is limited to mass transit (I live in Brooklyn, New York), yet I will find a way if the distance is reasonable.

So I am hoping to receive advice on how to attain any information, free classes, etc. Anything that will help me attain a job in the forestry industry.

Thank you and I am looking forward to your response.

 

[EdenT]

Welcome DThumb. Good luck with the career change. How old are you (not that age is necessarily a problem)? Look for a job as a ground-person. This job entails dragging branches for the most part (ground level entry) but this will get you very fit and you will need that in the long run. It will also get you exposure to techniques and a chance to learn off experienced climbers. Try and find an ISA certified employer. This does not guarantee capability but it is a good indicator.

 

[DThumb]

middle age....

Is there an age cap for the such positions? I am 30+

 

[bulldoglover]

No age cap. As long as you can hustle and follow instructions you will shine. There are some good books that might get you started, but otjt is the best way to learn. Good luck and welcome, there is a wealth of knowledge here.

 

[treeseer]

Start with the link in my sig line.

There is better work in keeping trees alive than killing them.

NYBG classes are very good, I hear.

 

[groundsmgr]

Welcome Aboard.
You will want to as previously stated look for a job as a groundman, That way your foot is in the door, and they can help train you from there to be a climber Bucket opperator etc.

Scotty

 

[tomtrees58]

Is there an age cap for the such positions? I am 30+

to start as a climber in your 30s is ok but i ts takes years to get it its a job not every one can do try home depot stay on the ground have Ben climbing fo

r 37 years now its not a job you can say i can do it tom trees