Q : What inspired you to shift from field work into training and education within the industry? A : The opportunity knocked, and I answered the door. There were very few people at the time that were able to offer that avenue. I began to author many ar- ticles for magazines and newsletters, and as a result, I became more in demand. Otherwise, I don’t think my exposure would have gotten very far. So, accom- panied with the actual demonstrations in the field, my articles highlighted much of what needed to be brought home to the worker and then shared with their co-workers. Q : You have received multiple honors such as the ISA Award of Merit from the western chapter. What do these recognitions mean to you? A : I just look at these achievements as though I’m being heard. People are responding to what I have to say and rec- ognize that I’ve taken the challenge and met it head on and provided necessary information to back up what I believe. It’s been a lifelong obsession [to work in this industry and give back]. I’ve served on our board; I’ve served in all positions. And the awards are just kind of what come along with the recognition of having served in the capacities that I’ve been asked to be a part of and I’m still a part of. Q : Can you tell us about the static remov- able false crotch you developed and how it improved climbing practices? A : That happened by chance and per- severance. It was a technique that [I] was trying to reduce the amount of effort needed to ascend up in a climbing sys- tem. [The question was] how to place a pulley up in a tree that didn’t move that allowed for you to gain a three- to-one me- chanical advantage.
72 | Spring 2026 ArborTIMES ™
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