Growing the next generation of arborists

13 October 2025

Treescape Hamilton is helping to train the next generation of arborists by supporting a high school student to gain valuable work experience and practical knowledge to kick start his career in the industry.

Treescapes Business Manager for Waikato Jesse (right) with year 12 student Dylan

 

Year 12 student Dylan Jackson-McClutchie, from Cambridge High School, is taking part in the Primary ITO Gateway programme one day a week, alongside his school studies.

After being introduced to Treescape through a family connection, Dylan started work experience as part of the Gateway programme in May. Since then, he has been working at Treescape each Tuesday, while studying towards a unit standard on assisting with general arboriculture duties.

Dylan is aiming to complete his Level 2 NCEA at school this year.

Treescape New Zealand business manager for Waikato, Jesse Webster, started his own career in arboriculture through a high school Gateway programme at age 15 (then called the STAR programme).

Jesse says the proof is in the pudding – having worked in the industry for sixteen years, eleven of those at Treescape.

He initially worked as an arborist, then moving up to foreman, working in land clearing, and then transitioning into management in 2019. He stepped up into the business manager role at Treescape – the biggest vegetation management company in New Zealand – ten months ago.

Jesse says he went to school “to play sport and eat lunch.”

He developed a passion for arboriculture and believes Dylan will be the same.

“Dylan is keen, fit, and eager,” Jesse says. “He turns up and has a passion for work. He enjoys being able to get out there and doing it, and learning different stuff from all the different people.”

Dylan has been introduced to all aspects of arboriculture, from planting, to dragging brush, grounds person duties, and introductory tree climbing.  

In an exciting development, Dylan has been offered a job next year as an apprentice working with the Treescape Hamilton crew – an excellent opportunity for the budding arborist. 

Meanwhile, Jesse is keen to start a Gateway programme for Treescape in Waikato to give more youth an opportunity to step into a career in arboriculture straight out of school.  

“Arb is a relatively unknown trade and it is experiencing a skills shortage, with an increasing demand in work. We enjoy our work and ensure there is an inclusive work culture, where we work hard and also like to have fun doing it.”  

He says Treescape employees can travel around New Zealand and Australia with the company. The business provides quality equipment, safety measures and systems to look after their staff and increase their longevity in the industry.  

For anyone considering arboriculture as a career option, Jesse says “have a go and see if you like it. 

“Gaining an awareness of the industry in school and being able to take taster courses can also lead to having more competent staff in the industry.”   

Dylan is being supported through the Gateway programme by Treescape Hamilton and his Primary ITO Training Adviser Linda Dreadon.  

To find out more about the Primary ITO Gateway Programme, click here. Or, if you're interested in speaking to your local Training Adviser about our Arboriculture training, please complete the form below!

Tags