Ropes Rigging and Trees

Randy Lee, Professional Tree Surgeon

My father owned a second-generation rigging company. When I turned 8, he tied a rope to me and pulled me up into trees. I’m not saying it was a good idea but I learned how to deal with fear. I spent my childhood being scared to death but knew all my knots by age 10.

At age 23, I realized the family rigging business wasn't enough to satisfy my passion for climbing so I set out to learn the tree business. Finding the right people to teach me skills I would need was difficult and dangerous. Seven painful years later I began a tree business and after 17 years, sold it to focus on climbing. 

I think my longevity as a tree surgeon is attributed to staying focused on safety, being super analytical, and working efficiently.

Now at 65, I’m learning other lessons about longevity - being selective about work and the type of work I take. I've had a long-time devotion to staying in shape, especially when it comes to balancing and living life to the fullest.