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With 20 years' experience in the industry, we are well aware that there comes a time in every climbing arborists' life that being up trees for a living becomes harder. Often that moment is what pre-empts the conversation we then have with climbers about next steps but it pays to think about this before that moment arrives. There are several ways that experienced climbers and groundsmen can advance their careers. There are lots of options, whether it's going on to become a tree surveyor, a planning officer, a practical assessor, a teacher or college lecturer, an expert witness, and lots more - there's something for everyone in the arb industry. The thing is that decades of experience and chainsaw tickets usually just isn't enough. However, a bit of forward planning and some extra time and effort will gain you the qualification you need to progress higher while your feet are on the ground. Watching who's about you on a daily basis in the arb world and seeing what draws your attention might help you decide a direction. The following links will take you to the Arboriculture Association website and they offer a wealth of information and support in this area. For a simple page of the possible careers in this sector click here and for a more detailed, clear view of the qualifications needed for different roles it's here. You can also access a list of training providers which offer suitable courses across the UK here. We would love to hear from education providers and those who have gone on to qualify at Level 3 or above in the arb sector about other options that will enrich this blog. We'll keep it updated so that it's useful on an ongoing basis. In the meantime it's really worth thinking about what your plan is for when climbing looses its shine. We're here when the time comes and we usually have a good range of technical as well as practical jobs available. Please comment if there are roles you think should be included above or if you have any questions. Kate & Beccy 😊

Good evening all, I have been looking in to forestry machinery operative courses today and i'm not sure where to start or which ones would be best. I take it I have to pass the basic FMO course first before moving on to say flail/mulcher. Skidsteers. Telehandlers. Tractors etc. Also is there much call for people with these tickets? I know nowadays having the right certificate is essential for a lot of roles. I'm looking into this as i do enjoy this industry but seeing as i don't climb i'd like a different progression route. I'm 39 this summer and don't really want to be just dragging brash till i'm 70+. I'm based in Birmingham very close to the M6 and M42 . I'd appreciate any advice on this. Lee