to do it. When I need to know more, I’ll ask more questions.” This was transformative for Ingersoll, who tends to teach with visualizations and figurative language. However, she recognized that this tactic no longer worked for all her students and took the opportunity to learn from the stu- dent’s preferences and expand her in- structional toolkit. TOOLS OF THE TRADE As a tree care industry giant, it is no sur- prise that Ingersoll has her fair share of favorite tools on the job. Throughout the years, she has collected quite a variety of equipment, but she reserves a special place in her heart for the pieces that are unique, versatile, and dependable. Among those tools is the Falteimer Cube . A tough and impeccably con- structed folding cube, the Falteimer offers arborists a portable, space-sav- ing throwline storage solution with easy loading, interior pockets for throw weights, and the ability to twist down to the size of a tennis shoe. “It’s often mimicked but never duplicat- ed,” she shared, declaring it her go-to item for throwline organization. “It lit- erally is the best, in my opinion.” Another favorite of hers is the Kalimba rope by Courant . “I have so many ropes…my ropes have ropes,” Ingersoll joked. However, the Kalimba takes precedent over all of her other options. “It has a sweet balance of the right diameter and the perfect stretch,” she explained. “And the way it behaves be- tween mechanicals and rope-on-rope with friction hitches, it is beautiful.” Similar to her collection of ropes, In- gersoll owns a variety of chainsaws for different purposes. She even considers herself a “chainsaw nerd.” However, Ingersoll does not limit her affinity for chainsaws to just one brand.
Outside of tree climbing, the WTCW offers classes on proper chainsaw handling, ornamental tree pruning, and much more.
nesses the twins finishing each oth- er’s sentences — a trademark of their close bond. To remain relevant as instructors, Ingersoll and LeVangie familiarize themselves with the latest tools and techniques of the industry. She and her sister Bear aren’t necessarily early adopters, per se. As teachers, though, they make it a point to understand new products so they can guide their stu- dents effectively. For example, Ingersoll shared how she advises students on optimizing tool performance, such as pairing specific ropes with devices like the Bucking- ham throttle.
MORE THAN A MATTER OF KNOWLEDGE
Along with technical skills and knowl- edge, Ingersoll emphasized that great teaching requires openness: “If you’re willing to keep your mind and ears open, you can continue to learn from your students, which will help you be a better teacher.” She recounted one transformative mo- ment when a neurodivergent student taught her the importance of clear, di- rect instructions rather than analogies. The student expressed to her, “I need you to tell me in black and white exact- ly what the objective is and why I need
62 | ArborTIMES™ Winter 2025
Made with FlippingBook - professional solution for displaying marketing and sales documents online