California Testing Dates

The California Landscape Contractors Association will offer Landscape Industry Certified Technician written and hands-on tests next month.

The testing dates, in the San Diego area, will be on Friday and Saturday, March 30-31, at Cuyamaca College, 900 Rancho San Diego Parkway, El Cajon, CA in the Ornamental Horticulture Department.

This test will be one of two opportunities for California landscape contractors to complete the hands-on test to become certified in 2012.

Another hands-on test will be conducted in northern California in October, and there will also be additional opportunities to complete the written test in June, July and October.

The deadline to register for the March test is February 24, 2012.

Landscape Industry Certified is an international designation of excellence for those who have taken their experience to the next level by studying, testing and passing requirements to become certified.

Individuals who have become Landscape Industry Certified have proven they have the skills and experience needed to meet minimum job requirements and set themselves apart in the landscape industry.

Landscape Industry Certified shows a commitment to best practices by both the landscape contractor and the company that hires him or her.

Certification applicants must pass both the written and hands-on tests in order to become certified.

For the hands-on test, the applicant rotates through timed hands-on problems which are supervised by one or more judges. To pass the hands-on test, applicants are required to install or maintain sample landscape projects which must meet required quality and safety standards.

Also, after becoming certified, contractors are required to maintain certification by completing 24 continuing education units every two years.

There are a number of benefits for both the individual to become certified and for an employer to hire certified individuals. Certification increases industry professionalism, creates career advancement opportunities and validates an individual's professional skills.

It also benefits the employer by allowing companies to meet city and municipal mandates.

The Landscape Industry Certified Technician program is conducted through PLANET and the hands-on exams are administered by state/regional/provincial association licensees and are offered once or twice a year.

PLANET, the Professional Landcare Network, is an international association serving lawn care professionals, exterior maintenance contractors, installation/design/build professionals, and interiorscapers.

The California Landscape Contractors Association is helping to provide training and advancement opportunities for today's green industry workforce, who provide environmental solutions for difficulties caused by California's changing climate.

For more information about a test or training, please contact Stephanie King at 916-830-2780 or stephanieking@clca.org.

For more information about certification or essential skills training opportunities, go to http://www.clca.us/certification