In any industry, what separates the professional from the self-proclaimed expert is consistent self-improvement; field experience that is supported by education, credentials and membership in professional trade organizations.
In any industry, what separates the professional from the self-proclaimed expert is consistent self-improvement; field experience that is supported by education, credentials and membership in professional trade organizations.
The importance of education and training is clear with obvious benefits. This is especially true in the landscape industry, which, like many service industries, tends to have a low bar set for entry level positions. The ultimate goal of education and training programs is to set the industry standard and work to raise the level of professionalism and that is good for everyone.
The same can be said for certification programs.
There is a national testing program, administered locally, offering certification to landscape professionals in maintenance and irrigation. Currently offered in 28 states and Canadian provinces, the landscape industry certified written and field test seeks to raise the standards of the profession, recognize proficiency in the landscape workforce, upgrade the status of individual landscape professionals and provide employers and the public with a means of identifying qualified landscape professionals.
Everyone has their own reasons for pursuing certification.
Landscape industry certified is a powerful distinction for individuals who have taken their experience, skills and desire for excellence to the next level by studying, testing and becoming certified. As an employer, it is a way to stand out from competitors and enhance personal credentials; prove a dedication to safe practices; as well as add value to employees.
The Hawaii Island Landscape Association is a member-driven organization that works with green industry folks to enrich the profession. Its mission is to promote excellence within the landscape industry. Dedicated members volunteer their time away from family and their businesses to shape and contribute to training and certification programs so that others can learn and grow.
Beginning on April 10, Hawaii Island Landscape Association, in collaboration with the University of Hawaii Cooperative Extension Service, is offering its annual 10-week landscape maintenance training program. The series is geared for landscape maintenance gardeners new to the field, those already in the field but desiring more technical knowledge, as well as experienced landscapers reviewing for the landscape industry certified technician test. Classes are open to home gardeners as well.
The first class, Botany and Plant ID, reviews basic plant science before tackling plant identification slides — illustrating more than 100 tropical plants common in Hawaii landscapes. Topics covered in the following weeks include more ornamental plant ID and selection; common weeds and their control; establishing and managing landscapes; insect pest ID and control; safe pesticide use; math for landscapers; plant and soil health; pruning; turf care; and irrigation basics.
The classes will be held at the Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel on Wednesdays from 2 to 5 p.m. Cost per class is $35 for association members; $40 for nonmembers. The fee for the entire series is $300 for association members; $350 for nonmembers.
The certification tests will be held in Kona in June provided there is a sufficient number of candidates. For more information and to register visit.hilahawaii.com or contact Ty at tym@hawaii.edu or 322-4884.