The UVM market is expanding! If someone you know is thinking about a career in vegetation management, here’s a list of resources to help them get started on the right foot.
Do you know a high school or college student who’s looking at career options? Maybe someone who loves being outside, would like to be of service to the community, and is looking for security and a clear career path? Then copy, forward, or share – the UVM market is growing, and could be the answer your student is searching for.
According to reports by Fortune Business Insights and Market Research Future, the North American UVM market was valued at approximately $12.4 billion in 2024; population growth, aging infrastructure and increasing demands for power are expected to propel the market’s expansion by about 7% each year, meaning UVM should continue to be a viable career option for many years to come. Other benefits of a UVM career? There are plenty, including:
Different types of positions available. Within the broader category of UVM, there are a number of different roles. An entry-level VM crew member may trim low-growing vegetation or apply herbicides or growth regulators to trees before they encroach on power lines. The vegetation management inspector provides oversight of work performed by VM crews. A utility arborist works close to power lines to remove trees or limbs that may have fallen and are touching lines, while the vegetation manager or right-of-way manager for a utility is responsible for that utility’s entire right-of-way acreage.
Good pay and a viable career path. While starting salaries for entry-level crew positions will vary widely based on geography and other factors, pay rates are generally on par with those of comparable entry-level positions in construction, plumbing or other trades. With experience, employees can move into supervisory or management positions, with a corresponding salary increase.
Technical knowledge will pay off. Utilities and UVM contractors are increasingly using drones, LiDAR and satellite imagery to develop more efficient and more effective vegetation management plans. Familiarity with or education in these technologies will help advance anyone’s UVM career.
Location flexibility. Almost anywhere there are people, there are power transmission and distribution lines. Pick a location and go!
Entrepreneurial opportunities. Much of the application and fieldwork in UVM is performed by crews employed by specialized vegetation management contracting firms. With the expected growth in the North American UVM market, opportunities abound for startups.
UVM and related degrees and certifications are offered by a number of state, community and technical colleges. Anyone interested in a career in UVM should check with local institutions for more information on their forestry, arboriculture and/or UVM programs.
In addition, interested students should check out both the Utility Arborist Association and the International Society of Arboriculture. There’s more information on utility vegetation management; student events at regional or national trade shows; and the various scholarships, certifications and professional development programs available through UAA and ISA.
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For over 30 years, Vistas® has covered strategies, trends and stories from across the Vegetation Management industry.
