As the owner and operator of Reid’s Tree Works, I am a long-time resident of Collingwood. My family moved here in 1991, and I was born here in 1993. Growing up in the outdoor area here, I have been connected with my surroundings with its landscape features of waterfront and escarpment. From a young age, I have always loved the outdoors, including mountain biking and hiking all summer to snowboarding in the winter. I love to be outside.

After high school, I was indefinite about my career path and decided to take a winter out west in Whistler. The raw landscape of the mountains and massive trees made me think about how Collingwood is almost the same, but with a more manageable size. When I came home, I knew I had to get my act together. I saw an arborist climbing a tree. I thought to myself that definitely I did not want to work in an office job or to be a teacher or a ski coach. I was into the adrenaline rush from extreme sports. Why not combine work and fun?

After a few years working with Ryan Jennett of Arb Tech, it was time to start my schooling to become an arborist. I attended Humber Collage for an apprenticeship of arboriculture. I learned cutting edge techniques in the trade and made some lifelong friends. I graduated with honours and at the top of the class.  Now with a certificate of apprenticeship in Urban Arboriculture through the Ontario Trades and Colleges, I split my time between two companies in the area to learn how other businesses operated. I worked for Downey Tree Service, and under Ryan Downey. Both Ryans taught me new ways to work. They have been pivotal in planning my new business venture. Now, as the owner of Reid’s Tree Works with six years of experience, my own company, I cannot wait to take a shot at hanging my chainsaw from my belt with the best in our area.