Disclaimer: I have posted this exact same thread in the employment forum but thought I'd get it in here to boost the viewing potential. Apologies if this your second time viewing! (maybe leave a reply?...)
Hi guys
I've always wanted to get into arboriculture but I followed the rules and went and did my A levels and then got a degree as was expected of me.
Two years later I find myself miserable, trapped in an office clicking my life away when I could be outside doing what I've always wanted to do.
I've had a look online at the various courses on offer but due to some stupid financial decisions I'm in a situation where it's impossible for me to save money. (Also because I'm paid so little). I'm sure the qualifications are absolutely essential in order to progress in the industry. But in all honesty I would be happy at this moment in time to just be outside pushing wheelbarrows filled with logs back and forth if it meant I had a foot in the door to the industry and could learn on the job.
Where do I start is my main question? Will I be able to pay my bills pushing a wheelbarrow full of wood around? (This is purely hypothetical lol) How long would it take for me to learn the ropes? (no pun intended). I'm pretty dead set on being a climber, so I'm wondering how long it would take for me to learn what is needed for the qualification?
Finally I understand the industry is huge and there are many different forms and sub degrees of tree surgery. But if I was to get a job would it be contractual/ part time/ full time etc? How is the consistency of work?
I live in Derbyshire and can travel to Manchester/ Sheffield/ Derby or anywhere within that radius.
So first and foremost if anyone has the time to answer my questions that would be beautiful. But secondly if anyone can offer me a foot in the door I'm a hard worker and I'm looking to get my foot in the door!
Cheers and thanks for reading,
Mike
ps. I've been made aware of the tough and dangerous nature of the work... But that's part and parcel of what draws me to it!
