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, it's about continuous improvement, you know, always striving to be better.

Jad: 3:27

I love that. So let's say you've weighed the pros and cons and you've decided okay, I'm ready to take the plunge and pursue the ETW.

Lilly: 3:35

All right, let's do it.

Jad: 3:36

What does that journey actually look like?

Lilly: 3:38

Well, it's a multifaceted path, for sure, and it starts with understanding the structure of the ETW exam itself.

Jad: 3:44

Okay, so let's break it down the ETW exam.

Lilly: 3:52

Yeah Well, the ETW examination is broken down into five core modules and it's designed to really put you through your paces and make sure you know what you're doing when it comes to tree care.

Jad: 3:57

Okay, let's start from the very beginning. What are the entry requirements? Just to take the exam.

Lilly: 4:01

Well, first of all, you have to be at least 18 years old, you need to have proof of physical and mental fitness, and you also need a valid first aid qualification.

Jad: 4:11

So you have to be in good shape, but what about actual experience?

Lilly: 4:15

Yeah, so you need at least one year of practical experience in tree care.

Jad: 4:19

Okay.

Lilly: 4:19

And this includes documented proof of chainsaw use both on the ground and at height.

Jad: 4:25

So this could be really great for people who maybe have been doing this for a really long time but didn't necessarily go and get a formal degree.

Lilly: 4:31

Absolutely. The ETW recognizes that. You know, real world experience is really what matters in this field.

Jad: 4:37

All right, so let's get into the five modules. What's the first one?

Lilly: 4:39

Well, the first one is the written theory exam and it's broken into two parts. It covers both theoretical and legal aspects of tree care.

Jad: 4:47

So you can't just know trees, you have to know the rules and regulations around tree care.

Lilly: 4:51

Yeah, yeah, exactly. So you have 30 multiple choice questions and then you have eight open questions. Eight open, yeah, and these open questions are really going to focus in on national directives and legal requirements of the country where you're taking the exam.

Jad: 5:06

Makes sense.

Lilly: 5:07

And one of those open questions will specifically zero in on either European or national nature protection laws.

Jad: 5:12

Okay, so what comes after the written exam?

Lilly: 5:15

Then there's the oral exam.

Jad: 5:16

Oral exam.

Lilly: 5:17

Yeah, so this is where you're actually going to have a discussion with the examiner, so it's not as scary as it sounds. Oh good, it's going to be 15 to 20 minutes, okay, and you'll use some visual aids to kind of explain your understanding of different arboriculture topics. So really this is about your communication skills and making sure you can get your point across about different concepts in tree care.

Jad: 5:37

All right, so we've got written, we've got oral. What's next?

Lilly: 5:41

Then there's the tree identification exam. This is where you need to know your trees.

Jad: 5:46

All right, so all those Latin names? Right, I'm going to have to break up my tree identification book.

Lilly: 5:50

Yeah, so they'll give you 15 different trees that are common to the region where you're taking the exam, and this can be broadleaf trees, conifers, even palms. Wow, you're taking the exam somewhere where palms grow, and you need to identify them by both the botanical name and the common name.

Jad: 6:10

Oh wow, both All right, so that's going to be a challenge.

Lilly: 6:13

Yeah.

Jad: 6:13

What comes next?

Lilly: 6:14

Okay, so then we're getting into the real action, the practical exams.

Jad: 6:17

Okay, let's do it.

Lilly: 6:19

So the first one is called the practical general exam and this one actually starts with a pre-assessment. So they're watching you right when you get there. So they're looking at how you secure the work area, how you're using your personal protective equipment, just your general awareness of all the hazards that could be around.

Jad: 6:35

Safety first, I guess even before you start working on the trees.

Lilly: 6:38

Yeah, and this is you know. This emphasis on safety is all throughout the entire assessment. It's really important.

Jad: 6:44

Okay, so you've been deemed safe. What's next? What do you have to do?

Lilly: 6:48

Okay, so now for the actual practical part. You'll be working on trees that are at least 15 meters tall and you'll be working at a height of at least 10 meters. So you'll start by doing your own return equipment check Right and a risk assessment. So they want to see that you can think critically and you understand what could go wrong before you even touch the tree.

Jad: 7:08

Right.

Lilly: 7:08

And most of these modules are done in teams, including the practical general.

Jad: 7:13

Oh, so teamwork is also a big factor here.

Lilly: 7:16

Yeah, for sure. They're looking at how well you can communicate, if you're using signals correctly and just the general coordination with your team members. And then, of course, you need to demonstrate that you know how to use a chainsaw properly. You'll need to do at least five different cuts and they're going to look at your technique and make sure you're doing everything safely and precisely. You'll also be using a handsaw for some smaller cuts.

Jad: 7:40

So this really does. I mean this separates the amateurs from the professionals.

Lilly: 7:44

Yes, yeah, it's designed to do that. So are you ready to climb?

Jad: 7:47

okay, let's climb. What about the practical climbing exam all?

Lilly: 7:50

right, so this one lasts for 60 minutes an hour yeah and the first 30 minutes is all about accessing the tree and securing yourself in a safe working position. So they're gonna watch you as you climb.

Lilly: 8:02

They'll look at your technique, your safety protocols, your knots yeah you also need to show that you can place an access line properly, and they'll also be looking at your limb walking skills. And then the second 30 minutes is all about pruning. So they'll be watching your cuts. They'll be looking at your precision, your knowledge, yeah. So it's really putting you through your paces, both physically and mentally.

Jad: 8:25

Wow, okay, so I've got those five core modules the written theory, the oral exam, tree identification, the practical general and the practical climbing. Yeah, but are there more? You said something about simulations. What are those?

Lilly: 8:40

Oh yeah. So in addition to all these modules, you'll also be put through some simulation to see how you'd handle real world situations.

Jad: 8:48

OK, give me an example.

Lilly: 8:49

OK, so let's say you're on a construction site and you need to protect the trees, so you're going to have to figure out the risks, put safety measures in place.

Jad: 8:57

Right.

Lilly: 8:57

And you'll have to talk to the construction crew to make sure that everyone knows how to keep the trees safe.

Jad: 9:02

OK.

Lilly: 9:06

Yeah, so it's not just about knowing the answers in a textbook.

Jad: 9:07

It's about being able to think on your feet and problem solve. Yeah, okay. So what would another simulation be?

Lilly: 9:12

Another one might be. You know you have to do a basic tree inspection.

Jad: 9:17

Okay.

Lilly: 9:17

And then, while the examiners are watching, you need to figure out if the tree's healthy, if there are any hazards. You know what are the actions that you need to take.

Jad: 9:28

So again, kind of like a real life puzzle that you have to put together and figure out what to do.

Lilly: 9:32

Exactly. So all of this, these simulations, are really important because it shows that you can think critically Right and you can handle these real world challenges.

Jad: 9:40

This has been a really detailed look. I think I understand now why the ETW certification is so well respected in the world of professional tree care.

Lilly: 9:50

Yeah, and you know it's really tough, but it creates people who are really good at what they do.

Jad: 9:57

And they're safe, yeah, and they're taking care of these really important trees.

Lilly: 9:59

Yeah.

Jad: 10:00

All right, so coming up, in the next part, we're going to talk about how to stay excellent.

Lilly: 10:05

Yes.

Jad: 10:06

The recertification. Yeah, so we'll be back with that. Yeah, in part two of our deep dive into the certified European tree worker.

Lilly: 10:13

It's interesting, isn't it, that to be a European tree worker.

Jad: 10:16

Yeah.

Lilly: 10:17

It's not just a one time thing where you take this exam.

Jad: 10:20

Right, you pass the test and you're good to go forever, you're done.

Lilly: 10:24

Yeah, so the ETW certification actually has this ongoing professional development that's required.

Jad: 10:29

Oh, I see, so after you get certified.

Lilly: 10:31

Yes.

Jad: 10:32

You have to keep proving that you are, you know, still good and you're still learning.

Lilly: 10:37

Exactly so. The ETW certificate is actually only valid for three years.

Jad: 10:41

Oh, wow, okay.

Lilly: 10:42

And then you have to be recertified.

Jad: 10:46

So every three years you have to go through a process.

Lilly: 10:47

Yes, to prove that you're keeping up with the latest stuff Exactly and this is really to make sure that European true workers you know they're staying current With all the safety standards, With the best techniques, that they're really continuously learning and growing.

Jad: 11:00

So it's not just about getting the certification.

Lilly: 11:02

Right.

Jad: 11:03

It's about maintaining this level of excellence.

Lilly: 11:05

Yeah.

Jad: 11:05

Okay, so let's break it down. What do you have to do to get recertified?

Lilly: 11:09

Okay, so to get recertified, first of all you have to prove that you've actually been doing tree work.

Jad: 11:15

Okay, so they're not just taking your word for it that you've been out there doing the work.

Lilly: 11:19

Right, you can't. Just. You need at least 24 months of practical tree care work out of the previous three years.

Jad: 11:38

OK.

Lilly: 11:38

Or 36 months. So you know, most of that time needs to have been actually spent in the field.

Jad: 11:43

Doing the work All right. So practical experience is a must. What else?

Lilly: 11:48

Well, you also need to make sure that your first aid qualification is still current.

Jad: 11:52

Oh right, Of course, because that was an entry requirement.

Lilly: 11:54

Exactly, safety is so important. They really want to make sure that you can handle those emergencies if something happens.

Jad: 12:00

Right, because you're up high, you're using chainsaws.

Lilly: 12:09

I mean, anything can happen. Okay, what about physical fitness? So, again, just like the initial application, you need to show that you're physically and mentally capable of doing tree work, so you can do that either through a medical certificate or a self-declaration.

Jad: 12:16

Okay, so staying in shape is part of the job. What about staying up to date with your knowledge?

Lilly: 12:22

Well, this is where it gets really interesting. Okay, to get recertified, you also need to show that you've done at least 30 hours 30?. Yes, 30 hours of relevant training or professional development.

Jad: 12:35

Wow. So again, it's not just about showing up and saying, hey, I've been pruning trees for the last three years. Recertify me.

Lilly: 12:42

Exactly, you have to put the work in.

Jad: 12:44

You got to be learning.

Lilly: 12:45

Yeah.

Jad: 12:46

Okay, so what kind of things count for those 30 hours?

Lilly: 12:52

So it could be seminars, workshops, courses, anything that's related to the ETW curriculum really.

Jad: 12:59

So they really want to make sure that you're keeping up with the latest research and best practices.

Lilly: 13:04

Yeah, so you're really expanding your knowledge base and you're staying ahead of the game, and it's really this commitment to lifelong learning that sets apart the certified European tree workers from others who might be working in the tree care field.

Jad: 13:18

Yeah, it's really a dedication to your profession and a dedication to the trees themselves.

Lilly: 13:23

Absolutely, it really is, and I think it's really important to touch on the ethics involved.

Roger: 13:27

Okay.

Lilly: 13:28

You know, because the ETW certification, it's really rooted in a very strong code of ethics.

Jad: 13:33

Okay, so it's not just about you know the technical skills.

Lilly: 13:37

No.

Jad: 13:37

It's about how you approach the work.

Lilly: 13:39

Yeah, it's about respect, it's about responsibility.

Jad: 13:46

Okay, so what are some of these key principles?

Lilly: 13:47

that guide these certified European tree workers in their work. We know first of all they have to commit to working safely and responsibly. I mean, that's the most important thing.

Jad: 13:54

Yeah, they need to protect themselves, their colleagues, the public and, of course, the trees.

Lilly: 14:00

Right, of course. Right, because again you're working at heights, you're using dangerous equipment. You have to be very careful.

Jad: 14:06

Yeah, it's a hazardous environment.

Lilly: 14:08

Okay, so safety first. But you said that ethical tree care goes beyond safety.

Jad: 14:13

Yeah, absolutely. It also involves making sure you're not damaging the trees.

Lilly: 14:17

Okay.

Jad: 14:17

You're preserving their health and you're trying to do things that are going to help them live a long life.

Lilly: 14:23

So it's really about understanding the science of the trees, how they grow, what they need to thrive.

Jad: 14:28

Exactly, and it's not just about the individual tree, it's about the whole environment around the tree. So making these really smart decisions Right. What are some other things that these ETWs have to think about ethically?

Lilly: 14:41

Well, they have to be honest and transparent with their clients.

Jad: 14:44

Okay, so no overselling your services making.

Lilly: 14:50

Yeah, you have to provide really accurate information and make sure your clients have realistic expectations.

Jad: 14:57

So it's about building that trust with your clients and being credible. Yeah, okay.

Lilly: 15:02

So you know all of this together, this code of ethics that they follow. It really shows that you know. Certified European tree workers are not just technicians who are good at you know cutting branches.

Jad: 15:13

Right.

Lilly: 15:13

They're really stewards of our forests.

Jad: 15:16

So for someone who's just starting out in the tree care world or maybe they've been doing it for a while but they haven't gotten this ETW certification what would you say are the biggest benefits of getting this credential?

Lilly: 15:28

Well, I would say, you know, it really opens up a world of opportunity.

Jad: 15:33

Okay.

Lilly: 15:33

This certification.

Jad: 15:34

It's recognized all over Europe and it can really boost your career, because you're showing that you have this high level of expertise and companies are looking for that, Municipalities are looking for that, Right Even just you know private people.

Lilly: 15:47

Absolutely. And you know, having the ETW certification really just sets you apart.

Jad: 15:53

Right, it shows that you have the skills, the knowledge, the professionalism yeah, it's like a guarantee to the employer that you know what you're doing yes, exactly, you're good at it, right and that you're gonna be safe exactly, and that you're gonna keep learning right, which is important so this really could lead to you know higher salaries for sure better job opportunities. Do Louie more interesting jobs? Yeah, and you know higher salaries for sure better job opportunities more interesting jobs.

Lilly: 16:17

Yeah, and you know, beyond the financial stuff, there's also just this feeling of you know satisfaction yeah of knowing that you are doing something really important yeah, and for people who are already working in the field, you know getting the certification, it really validates everything you already know.

Jad: 16:37

Right, you're showing that you're at the top of your game.

Lilly: 16:39

Exactly, and then you're connected to all these other amazing tree workers.

Jad: 16:43

Right, so you're joining this whole community.

Lilly: 16:45

Absolutely.

Jad: 16:46

Of people. Okay, I want to shift gears a little bit and I want to talk about the organizations that are supporting this whole ETW certification.

Lilly: 16:55

Okay.

Jad: 16:56

What can you tell us about them?

Lilly: 16:57

Well, the most important one is the European Arboricultural Council, or the EAC.

Jad: 17:04

Right.

Lilly: 17:04

We talked about them before, and they're the ones who run the whole program.

Jad: 17:07

Okay, so they're the ones who set the standards.

Lilly: 17:09

Yes.

Jad: 17:10

They develop the exam, they make sure everything is running the way it should.

Lilly: 17:14

So they're a nonprofit and they're dedicated to making sure that there are these high standards for boriculture all across Europe.

Jad: 17:23

Right. So they're not just focused on the ETW certification, they're really looking at the whole field.

Lilly: 17:28

Yeah, absolutely. And you know it's not just about one country, it's across different countries.

Jad: 17:32

Right.

Lilly: 17:32

Because trees don't care about borders.

Jad: 17:34

Right, they just grow wherever they want.

Lilly: 17:36

Yeah.

Jad: 17:37

So now.

Lilly: 17:38

Now for the big question how?

Jad: 17:40

Yeah, how do you actually prepare for this thing?

Lilly: 17:42

Right, because it is a beast of an exam.

Jad: 17:44

It is, so let's equip you with the tools and advice you need to really conquer this challenge.

Lilly: 17:50

Challenge accepted.

Jad: 17:51

Okay, so first things first. They can't stress this enough. What's that Get that ETW handbook.

Lilly: 17:56

Yeah, handbook.

Jad: 17:57

It is your roadmap to success.

Lilly: 17:59

Okay, your guidebook.

Jad: 18:01

It outlines everything you need to know.

Lilly: 18:02

Like what.

Jad: 18:03

About the exam format, the content, what those examiners are looking for.

Lilly: 18:07

So it's like studying the map before you set off on a hike.

Jad: 18:10

Exactly. You want to know what you're getting into right.

Lilly: 18:12

Right. Make sure you're prepared.

Jad: 18:13

So yeah, crack it, open that handbook. That's a great first step.

Lilly: 18:16

Okay, step one check.

Jad: 18:17

But what about some more hands-on prep?

Lilly: 18:20

Ah yes, getting down to the nitty-gritty.

Jad: 18:22

Exactly.

Lilly: 18:23

This is where targeted training comes in.

Jad: 18:25

Okay.

Lilly: 18:25

Seeking out courses or workshops specifically designed for the ETW exam that can be so valuable.

Jad: 18:33

Oh, I can see that Learning from experienced instructors, getting that hands-on practice Exactly Having the chance to ask questions.

Lilly: 18:40

It's like having a coach in your corner. You know someone who's been there, done that.

Jad: 18:44

Yeah, they can guide you, share their insights, help you avoid those common pitfalls.

Lilly: 18:49

Absolutely, and plus being in a learning environment with other people who are going for the ETW.

Jad: 18:54

Yeah.

Lilly: 18:55

That can be really motivating. You know you're all in it together.

Jad: 18:57

It's like a support system.

Lilly: 18:59

Exactly, you're cheering each other on.

Jad: 19:01

I love that. But you know, even with all the preparation in the world, I'm sure there's still some nerves.

Lilly: 19:06

Oh for sure, Test anxiety is real.

Jad: 19:08

It is and the study we mentioned earlier. It actually found that a lot of tree workers they feel overwhelmed by the time commitment.

Lilly: 19:15

Oh yeah.

Jad: 19:16

And they struggle with that test anxiety.

Lilly: 19:18

It's a lot of pressure.

Jad: 19:19

It is. So any advice for how to handle those pre-exam jitters?

Lilly: 19:23

Okay. So first of all, those feelings are totally normal. Okay good, it's a big exam, it's natural to feel some stress.

Jad: 19:30

So don't beat yourself up about it.

Lilly: 19:32

Exactly, give yourself some grace, okay. So what can you do to kind of ease those nerves? Well, one thing is break down that study process into manageable chunks. Okay, don't try to cram everything in at the last minute Small bites yes, Set realistic goals. Find study techniques that work for you.

Jad: 19:50

Okay, so like what are some examples of study techniques that work?

Lilly: 19:54

Well, some people they like flashcards, Others they prefer to make their own notes or maybe record themselves, talking through the material.

Jad: 20:00

Okay, so find what helps you absorb the information.

Lilly: 20:04

Exactly, and don't forget to celebrate those small wins along the way you know.

Jad: 20:08

Oh, yeah, acknowledge your progress.

Lilly: 20:09

It's all about staying motivated and keeping that momentum going.

Jad: 20:12

Love it. So you've got your study plan you Staying motivated and keeping that momentum going Love it. So you've got your study plan, you're breaking things down, but what about dealing with that actual test anxiety? You know.

Lilly: 20:21

Okay, yeah.

Jad: 20:21

In the moment.

Lilly: 20:22

Okay. So here's the thing. Remember you've gotten this far because you're a skilled professional.

Jad: 20:28

That's right.

Lilly: 20:28

You know your stuff you've put in the work.

Jad: 20:31

So trust yourself.

Lilly: 20:31

Exactly Believe in yourself and visualize yourself succeeding.

Jad: 20:36

Oh, I love that visualization is powerful it is.

Lilly: 20:38

And don't forget to breathe, you know.

Jad: 20:41

Deep breaths.

Lilly: 20:42

Deep breaths. It can really help calm those nerves.

Jad: 20:45

Yeah, and if it helps talk to other ETW holders.

Lilly: 20:48

Oh, that's a great idea.

Jad: 20:49

They've been in those exam trenches.

Lilly: 20:51

They have, they know what it's like and they can offer some really great advice and support.

Jad: 20:55

So connect with that community, tap into their experience.

Lilly: 20:58

It's all about helping each other. Rise, you know.

Jad: 21:01

I love that. So to all you tree care professionals out there considering the ETW, remember this. It's a challenge.

Lilly: 21:08

Oh, it is.

Jad: 21:09

But the rewards are so worth it. They are. It's about pushing yourself to be the best you can be.

Lilly: 21:14

And about raising the bar for the entire tree care industry.

Jad: 21:18

Because, as our urban forests continue to grow and change, we need skilled, certified professionals more than ever. So, to all the climbers, pruners and tree care champions out there, we say this Keep climbing. Keep learning.

Lilly: 21:31

And keep those trees thriving. And Keep learning, keep learning and keep those trees thriving.

Roger: 21:37

And until next time, happy climbing. That wraps up today's episode of Talking Trees. We hope you found our deep dive into the European Tree Worker Certification. Insightful Thanks for joining us and a big shout out to all our listeners for your continued support. Until next time, keep growing your knowledge and taking care of the trees around you.