It connects me to the wider industry, and as my career hasn’t been entirely typical, it’s really important to me that I maintain this connection.
Being a member means I have people I can talk to about issues I want to know more about. Through the commitment to continued professional development, the Institute encourages me to better myself by learning more about the industry as a whole.
I think any professional qualification is extremely valuable. I mentioned professional development earlier, and this is something which is very important to me. It demonstrates commitment, it gives you a certain standing within your own industry and provides a level of reassurance for those outside of the industry that actually, you are an expert in your field. It also has a strong Code of Conduct that is upheld.
The learning opportunities were an important driver in joining initially, and over time I’ve realised the impact of membership on my CV, it’s a recognised qualification that has helped me in my career.
It’s the obvious choice for a forestry graduate.
I am an assessor for the Institute, and this is something I really enjoy. It helped me to become a better interviewer in my own job, and it’s been another way of meeting industry professionals.
But probably the best thing the Institute gives me is the opportunity to debate forestry issues over a beer or two after the main business of the day is over.
You will find your career enhanced by chartered status, and the process of becoming a Professional Member is highly rewarding in itself.
Simply put, the Institute is the only Royal-Chartered body which represents arboricultural professionals.
As well as demonstrating my continued commitment to the forestry industry, I believe that chartered status will be a strong foundation upon which to develop my career and build professional relationships based on trust and respect.
I always knew I wanted to be a forester and use my technical knowledge and skills to manage the forests and land.
I have always loved being outdoors and within nature, so pursuing a career in this area seemed like an obvious choice.
For me, good forestry is about both long-term woodland resilience and investing in the people who will care for those landscapes in future.
Membership of the ICF offers reassurance to collaborators that I am accountable and working to a set of ethical standards.
The Institute has provided a platform which has enabled me to apply good governance and high professional standards in my day-to-day role.
Going through PME is a big piece of work and it was a significant milestone in my career. I feel proud to have achieved the MICFor post-nominals.
Being chartered reassures my clients that they are working with someone that has achieved industry recognition.
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