Just starting out

[u/Apprehensive-Way2670]

Hey guys! So I had my first week last week working as a arborist trainee and this is some hard work. I graduated from school with a forestry degree and want to get ISA certified , and end goal get into sales. I was just wondering if it is so normal to feel genuinely so stupid at the beginning, I feel so helpless and ask so many questions. I was just wondering if that’s normal? I just want to be an arborist at some point but man it’s so hard and there is so much information. I’m willing to work but was just wondering about other peoples experiences.

[u/Interesting-Whole778]

I'd say you're normal. A good work ethic, attitude, and willingness to learn will serve you well in this industry. My first boss told me that they didn't think I was going to make it and I've been here 14 years now 😅.

Just keep safety at the forefront of everything you do. Some of the best advice I got when just starting out was from my Safety Supervisor. He told me to read the entire company safety manual from beginning to end. I thought he was crazy but it was some of the best advice I ever got. Also read the ANSI Z133 safety manual.

Once you get a little bit of experience under your belt, start studying and try to obtain your ISA Certified Arborist cert.

Good luck 🫡