Roger 0:02

Talking Trees with Lily and Jad. In previous episodes, we've already touched on the European Arboricultural Council and its activities in general. This time, we'll dive deeper into the certification of the European Tree Worker, exploring the qualifications, standards and what it takes to earn this highly regarded credential.

Jad 0:27

Welcome to the Deep Dive. Today we're climbing high into the world of professional tree care and taking a close look at the European Tree Worker Certification, or ETW.

Lilly 0:38

That's right, the ETW.

Jad 0:39

Now we all know that the tree care industry is full of incredibly skilled professionals.

Lilly 0:44

Absolutely.

Jad 0:45

But earning that official certification, well, well, that can really set you apart.

Lilly 0:49

Oh, for sure.

Jad 0:50

So today we're going to find out why some tree workers decide to go for that certification and we'll really dig into what that ETW process actually involves.

Lilly 1:00

It's a journey for sure.

Jad 1:01

We've got some fascinating research from a study that was published in Arboriculture and Urban Forestry and some expert insights from arbjobscom as well.

Lilly 1:09

Sounds like we've got a lot to unpack.

Jad 1:11

We do so. Picture this You're a tree worker in Europe.

Lilly 1:14

Okay, I'm there.

Jad 1:15

Is getting certified worth the time and effort? Good question what are the real benefits you'll see and what kind of challenges might you face along the way? Let's find out. You'll see, and what kind of challenges might you face along the way. Let's find out. Let's do it. This study we mentioned it really dives into the motivations and barriers surrounding certification and, while it focused on commercial tree workers in the US. South. It actually offers some really valuable insights that apply to tree workers all over the world, including right there in Europe.

Lilly 1:40

I think that's right. The reasons behind choosing to get certified they're pretty universal, you know.

Jad 1:46

Yeah, it's a decision with professional and personal implications for sure. F-node. One of the things that really jumped out at me from this study was that a lot of tree workers they view certification as a way to really boost their knowledge and skills.

Lilly 2:00

Oh, that makes sense.

Jad 2:01

Especially those who may not have a formal degree in arboriculture.

Lilly 2:04

Right. They might have learned through experience on the job.

Jad 2:07

Exactly so. For them, the ETW, it becomes this valuable alternative route to gaining that professional recognition.

Lilly 2:15

It's a way to demonstrate their expertise even without that piece of paper.

Jad 2:19

Exactly, and arbjobscom actually echoes that idea. They do they emphasize that practical skills and real-world experience, those are the key requirements for the ETW, even if you don't have a formal education?

Lilly 2:32

So it's all about what you can do, not just what you know in theory.

Jad 2:37

I love that, but on the flip side, the study also found that many tree workers they find themselves so incredibly busy with their existing workloads.

Lilly 2:47

Oh yeah, that's the reality of the job.

Jad 2:50

It can be hard to carve out that time for study and exam preparation.

Lilly 2:53

I can only imagine it's like adding another branch to your already full plate.

Jad 2:57

Exactly. You're already out there climbing, pruning, managing projects.

Lilly 3:00

Yeah, when do you squeeze in the studying?

Jad 3:02

Right, yeah, it's a tough balance for sure.

Lilly 3:04

It is. But you know, even if you're a seasoned professional, I think there's always room to grow and learn.

Jad 3:12

For sure.

Lilly 3:12

Brushing up on best practices, staying updated on industry standards, the ETW it pushes you to do that.

Jad 3:19

So it's like a way to make sure your skills stay sharp even as the industry evolves.

Lilly 3:23

Exactly Like a way to make sure your skills stay sharp even as the industry evolves. Exactly it's about continuous improvement.

Jad 3:27

You know always striving to be better. I love it. So let's say you.

Roger 3:32

If you want to dive deeper into this topic and catch more of Lily and Jad's conversation, head over to wwwheroheroco slash talkingtrees. Your support means the world to us. It allows us to bring you the latest updates and insights from the world of arboriculture every single day. Thank you for keeping the podcast growing.