My passion for horticulture and work as a gardener began even before it was recognized as a Red Seal trade. I was only made aware of the designation many years later; however, once I set my sights on getting certified in my trade, I never looked back. In 2017, I began the Horticulture Training Program (equivalent to ITA Levels 1 and 2) at UBC Botanical Garden. Even with years of work under my belt at that point, I had still yet to learn some of the basics of the trade.
During the program, I was exposed to a larger diversity of opportunities in the industry and was inspired by the number of successful women thriving within the trade: women were running their own businesses and crews, designing gardens, and managing entire greenhouse operations.
Upon completion of my training, I had the required number of work hours to challenge the Red Seal exam, so I studied and successfully achieved qualification in Landscape Horticulture. I have no doubt studying at UBC Botanical Garden as a pathway to Red Seal certification was one of the best investments I made in my career to date. If you’re passionate about your trade, there is always something new to learn or a skill to acquire. Competency equals confidence. And as a woman in the trades, confidence in yourself will take you anywhere.
Applications are now open for 2021! Submit your online application below.
