President's Letter: Education and Passion

November 9, 2023

In my years since first becoming a member of FNGLA’s Royal Palm Chapter, I have been asked many times, “Why should I encourage my employees to become involved in FNGLA?”

My first go-to answer, in my way of thinking, is an individual surrounded by other individuals who are working in the same field or industry can learn and develop skills to improve their job performance and personal development. In turn, this can help them develop PASSION for what they do.

Haven’t we all seen in our lives when someone excels at anything, whether it’s a trade, sport or hobby? In most cases they have a PASSION for that activity. If you have passion, you have the first step covered in reaching excellence.

My second go-to answer is, “FNGLA can provide educational opportunities which will also benefit an individual as both an employee and personally. Passion, alone, is not always enough. It has to be guided or channeled. And, to develop credibility, knowledge has to be gained and used to perform activities correctly. Knowledge comes through the EDUCATION process. In my 40 years as an arborist and horticulturist, I always pushed myself to be the smartest guy in the room. There were times when I was, but I am not that guy. However, my PASSION always drove me to find answers if I came across something I didn’t know, or had not seen before.

FNGLA provides training, resource materials and Certifications aimed at educating and giving people an opportunity to learn and enhance their skills. Receiving an FNGLA Certification also requires one to obtain CEU’s (Continuing Educational Units) to keep that Certification. This is another win-win for the employer and individual as it keeps one up-to-date on industry events, issues and cultural practices.

I am blessed to do what I do. And, not a day goes by without me thanking my God for both the work ethic my dad instilled in me, and for the privilege of spending my days outside in God’s nature.

At this special time of Thanksgiving I hope each and every one of you will have the opportunity to spend time with family and loved ones. I am thankful for you all and what you do for yourselves, your families, the Green industry and FNGLA.

I am thankful for your achievements, and proud to call you all my FNGLA family.

Phil Buck sig