Summary
Blair Veitch, with 40 years of experience in the tree industry, shares his journey and insights. He recalls his early connection to trees, from climbing a 60-foot white spruce as a child to logging with his father. Blair's passion for tree biology grew over time, leading him to study and learn about trees. He emphasizes the importance of tree climbing competitions and training events in his career. Blair also discusses the challenges and rewards of transitioning from utility work to residential and commercial tree care. He highlights the need for physical fitness and self-care in the industry and draws parallels between trees and human resilience. Blair encourages young arborists to be patient and see things through, as good things will come with time and perseverance. The conversation explores the advancements in tree climbing and how technology has made the job easier and safer. It discusses the changes in the tree industry over the past 30 years, including scientific advancements and the need for proper trade recognition. The future of the tree industry is examined, with a focus on the importance of trade recognition and the role of associations in driving education and professionalism. The challenges in establishing arboriculture as a trade are discussed, including the fear of change and the need for organized labor. The conversation concludes with a reflection on the role of youth in embracing change and shaping the future of the industry.
Takeaways
- Early experiences with trees can shape a lifelong passion for tree care.
- Tree climbing competitions and training events provide valuable learning and teaching moments.
- Transitioning from utility work to residential and commercial tree care requires adaptability and learning new skills.
- Maintaining physical fitness and self-care is important for a long and healthy career in the tree industry.
- Patience and perseverance are key to success in the industry, and good things come to those who stick with it. Advancements in technology have made tree climbing easier and safer.
- The tree industry has undergone significant changes in the past 30 years, with scientific advancements and the need for proper trade recognition.
- Trade recognition is crucial for the future of the tree industry, and associations play a vital role in driving education and professionalism.
- Challenges in establishing arboriculture as a trade include the fear of change and the need for organized labor.
- The youth have an important role in embracing change and shaping the future of the industry.
Chapters
00:00Introduction and Background
01:31Early Connection to Trees
04:01Passion for Tree Biology
06:13Tree Climbing Competitions
07:20Transition from Utility to Residential
08:17First Time Climbing with a Harness
09:47Involvement in Tree Climbing Competitions
10:33Transition from Alberta to BC
14:23Maintaining Personal Fitness and Self-Care
15:22Drawing Parallels from Trees to Life
20:57Maintaining Physical Health
28:13Adaptability and Change
30:10Connection to Nature and Countryside
33:26Advancements in the Industry
35:53Challenges of the New Generation
38:07Patience and Perseverance
44:25Advancements in the Industry
44:44Advancements in Tree Climbing
46:13Changes in the Tree Industry
47:08Recognition of Arboriculture as a Trade
48:16The Future of the Tree Industry
51:57The Role of Associations in Trade Recognition
55:50Challenges in Establishing Arboriculture as a Trade
59:06The Role of Youth in Embracing Change
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