Certifications

The International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) is a worldwide professional organization dedicated to fostering a greater appreciation for trees and to promoting research, technology, and the professional practice of arboriculture.

The mission of the Wisconsin Arborist Association (WAA) is to improve the knowledge and quality of the profession of arboriculture. The WAA was founded in 1964, since that time it has grown into a large organization of commercial, municipal, utility and academic arborists.

The Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA) is the professional association for tree care companies. Established in 1938 as the National Arborist Association, today’s TCIA is a trade association of more than 1,400 tree care company members and nearly 400 affiliated corporate members, encompassing tens of thousands of tree care professionals. The TCIA develops safety and education programs, standards of tree care practice, and management information for arboriculture firms around the world.

This “seal of approval” from the Tree Care Industry Association helps consumers find tree care companies that have been inspected and accredited based on: adherence to industry standards for quality and safety; maintenance of trained, professional staff; and dedication to ethics and quality in business practices.

Certified Treecare Safety Professional (CTSP): The industry’s only safety certification program, credentialing individual arborists for safety practices and knowledge

To earn an International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Arborist credential, you must be trained and knowledgeable in all aspects of arboriculture. ISA Certified Arborists have met all requirements to be eligible for the exam, which includes three or more years of full-time, eligible, practical work experience in arboriculture and/or a degree in the field of arboriculture, horticulture, landscape architecture, or forestry from a regionally accredited educational institute. This certification covers a large number of topics giving the candidates flexibility in the arboricultural profession. A code of ethics for ISA Certified Arborists strengthens the credibility and reliability of the work force. This certification is accredited by the American National Standards Institute, meeting and exceeding ISO 17024.

The International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Board Certified Master Arborist (BCMA) credential is the highest level of certification offered by ISA. This credential recognizes ISA Certified Arborists who have reached the pinnacle in their profession. In addition to passing an extensive scenario-based exam, candidates must abide by a Code of Ethics, which ensures quality of work. Fewer than two percent of all ISA Certified Arborists currently hold this certification.

ISA Certified Urban Forest Professional credential holders are recognized by their peers and the public as tree care professionals who have attained a fundamental level of knowledge in core areas of the arboriculture practice within an urban forest context and management of trees as a community providing societal benefits. Areas of knowledge measured include communication skills, public relations, policy and planning, administration, risk management, and arboricultural practices.