David Leinbach, CTSP, getting to the root of the problem. Photo courtesy of David Leinbach.

Meet David Leinbach, CTSP, an arboriculture instructor, ISA Board Certified Master Arborist, ISA Certified Tree Climber and TCIA Qualified Trainer based in Fort Collins, Colorado. In this month’s profile Leinbach shares what inspired him to become a Certified Treecare Safety Professional (CTSP), why slowing down can actually make work more efficient and how his CTSP training has helped him become a stronger leader, instructor and safety advocate.

What inspired you to become a CTSP?

My commitment to safety and professionalism inspired me to become a CTSP. I wanted to strengthen my leadership and communication skills so I could better serve and support my fellow arborists and coworkers. I also see continuing education as an important part of being a good leader and professional. The CTSP program, in conjunction with the Crew Leader Qualification, gave me an opportunity to build on my experience, expand my knowledge and become more intentional in how I communicate and lead. Ultimately, becoming a CTSP was about more than earning a credential – it was about becoming a better leader, continuing to grow in my profession and helping create a safer, more professional workplace for everyone around me.

What safety lesson has had the greatest impact on your career?

Leinbach (left) demonstrates the versatility of mechanical climbing devices alongside fellow arborist Kaleb Smith during aerial rescue training. Photo courtesy of Keith Fulton.

I would say it’s the importance of slowing down and taking the time to make a plan. As a production arborist, speed and efficiency have always been drilled into me, but I’ve learned that taking a few extra minutes to collaborate with coworkers, evaluate the plan and make changes when needed can make all the difference. That approach has helped me avoid countless problems and difficult situations throughout my career. The saying “safe is smooth, and smooth is fast” really holds true. A little extra time spent planning and communicating up front can prevent mistakes, injuries and problems that ultimately cost far more time in the long run.

Can you share a time when your CTSP training or knowledge helped prevent an incident or injury?

Commuting to and from the job site may arguably expose us to more potential incidents than the work itself. Adding trailers and the additional weight of equipment such as skid steers only increases that risk. My CTSP training encouraged me to develop a non-DOT (Department of Transportation) pre- and post-trip SOP (Standard Operating Procedure) to ensure our trucks and trailers are properly connected and that trailer brakes are set and functioning properly. This came from several incidents in which trailers were not completely or properly connected. By developing a consistent process for checking these connections before leaving the yard, we have been able to identify and correct potential problems before they become an incident on the road. It’s a simple process, but it has added an important layer of safety to our daily operations.

What advice would you give someone who is considering becoming a CTSP?

Front Range Community College (FRCC) student Sierra Lewis receives hands-on feedback from Leinbach during aerial rescue training. Photo courtesy of Keith Fulton.

I highly encourage anyone considering the CTSP program to pursue the credential. Safety is everyone’s responsibility, even if it isn’t part of your job title. The CTSP program provides the knowledge and tools to promote safety, integrate it into your daily work and life and encourage others to take an active role in looking out for themselves and their coworkers. It also helps you develop the skills to recognize opportunities for improvement and become a stronger safety leader within your organization. From a professional standpoint, becoming a CTSP also demonstrates a commitment to safety and professionalism, which can make you more marketable to current and future employers.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

Outside of work, I enjoy the peace and escape from reality that comes with a long motorcycle ride. I also enjoy board games and playing Dungeons & Dragons, which gives me another opportunity to unplug and have fun with friends. I enjoy traveling and visiting the national parks with my girlfriend and fellow CTSP, Monika D. Andrews. At home, I’ve gotten into baking sourdough bread and practicing my home barista skills. I really enjoy experimenting with coffee and learning more about the process – from brewing techniques to finding ways to make a better cup. Between motorcycles, travel, games, baking and coffee, I’ve found plenty of hobbies that let me slow down, be creative and recharge when I’m away from work.

Is there anything else you’d like to share?

Becoming a CTSP has elevated other aspects of my life, including how I teach college students about trees as a part-time instructor of arboriculture at Front Range Community College in Fort Collins, Colorado. The community of CTSPs is composed of dedicated arborists and has become a great resource whenever challenges arise or I need a sounding board for new ideas. I see becoming a CTSP as a stepping stone toward a safer, more professional tree care industry. Hopefully, it also ignites a desire to continue pursuing safety and training through opportunities such as becoming a Qualified Trainer with TCIA. Sharing my passion for safety and arboriculture with individuals from across the country is a rewarding way to help strengthen our industry and support the next generation of tree care professionals.

Tracey Miller is the manager of content & communications for TCI Magazine.