Why Certify?

The Society of Commercial Arboriculture was pleased to present  'Why Certify?' We will have a panel of experts, including Andy Trotter (of West Coast Arborists, Inc.) and SCA Board Vice President Chris Ahlum (of Ahlum & Arbor Tree Preservation) discussing why they've chosen to certify, and how it has helped them and their crews in regards to plant healthcare and business practices.

About the Presenters:

Chris D. Ahlum worked in the family business throughout middle and high school and joined Ahlum & Arbor fulltime in 2002. As Vice President, Chris Ahlum’s responsibilities include operations management, safety programs, client service and consultation. Chris is one of only three individuals in the state of Ohio to hold both of the highest arboriculture industry designations – International Society of Arboriculture’s (ISA) Board Certified Master Arborist and the American Society of Consulting Arborists’ Registered Consulting Arborist #465. Chris is also one of the youngest individuals to have earned either designation.

Andrew Trotter, Vice President, Field Operations Manager has been with WCA since August of 1982.  Prior to that, he had eight year’s experience in the tree care industry.  Mr. Trotter worked as a Foreman for eight years and was promoted to Field Operations Manager in March of 1990.  Today at WCA, Mr. Trotter is responsible for field operations and management of crews.  He is also involved in scheduling, evaluation and production of street tree maintenance.  Mr. Trotter has been an industry leader in many key projects including United Voices for Healthier Communities Great Clean Air Planting Project, Toolkit for Developing Urban Forest Management Plans and the Western Chapter ISA’s annual “workday” fundraiser. Professional Registrations include: California Urban Forests Council, Certified Urban Forester #103; ISA, Certified Utility Arborist #WE-642AU; Wildlife Training Institute, Certified Wildlife Protector #533; and 

TCIA, Certified Tree Care Safety Professional, #142