Blair Veitch

SummaryBlair 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. TakeawaysEarly 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.Chapters00:00Introduction and Background01:31Early Connection to Trees04:01Passion for Tree Biology06:13Tree Climbing Competitions07:20Transition from Utility to Residential08:17First Time Climbing with a Harness09:47Involvement in Tree Climbing Competitions10:33Transition from Alberta to BC14:23Maintaining Personal Fitness and Self-Care15:22Drawing Parallels from Trees to Life20:57Maintaining Physical Health25:19Comparison to Trees28:13Adaptability and Change30:10Connection to Nature and Countryside33:26Advancements in the Industry35:53Challenges of the New Generation38:07Patience and Perseverance44:25Advancements in the Industry44:44Advancements in Tree Climbing46:13Changes in the Tree Industry47:08Recognition of Arboriculture as a Trade48:16The Future of the Tree Industry51:57The Role of Associations in Trade Recognition55:50Challenges in Establishing Arboriculture as a Trade58:23The Fear of Change59:06The Role of Youth in Embracing Change59:48Conclusion Thanks to our monthly supporters Brian Maxson Tim Bushnell Catelyst11 Trees&lps Dylan Tobe Peter LaRue Scott Andrew Hordyk Michael Tain Dwayne Sr. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★