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Climb Smarter. Climb Safer. Climb Modern.
- May 28
- 3 min read
Tree climbing has evolved — and the professionals leading the industry are evolving with it.
The Modern Tree Climbing Systems (MTCS) Course from Arboriculture Canada is designed for arborists who want to sharpen their climbing efficiency, improve safety awareness, and master the systems shaping modern arboriculture. Built for real-world tree work, this course blends practical climbing techniques, advanced safety principles, equipment knowledge, and system design into one powerful learning experience.
Whether you’re a new climber looking to build confidence or an experienced arborist ready to modernize your approach, MTCS delivers training that can immediately impact your work in the canopy.
Why Modern Tree Climbing Matters
Tree work remains one of the most dangerous professions in North America. The MTCS workbook highlights sobering industry statistics, noting that arborists experience fatal accidents every few working days, with many incidents linked to falls, struck-by injuries, and poor planning.
That’s why modern climbing isn’t just about speed or gear — it’s about:
Better decision-making
Smarter risk assessment
Efficient movement in the canopy
Proper equipment use
Safer climbing systems
Strong communication and teamwork
The MTCS Course focuses on creating climbers who are not only technically skilled, but professionally prepared.
What You’ll Learn
This course dives deep into the systems and strategies used by today’s professional arborists.
Participants explore topics including:
Advanced Safety & Risk Assessment
Learn how to properly inspect trees, identify structural hazards, establish emergency plans, and perform integrated risk assessments before ever leaving the ground.
Modern Climbing Systems
Gain hands-on understanding of:
Moving Rope Systems (MRS)
Stationary Rope Systems (SRS)
Basal and canopy anchors
Redirects and friction management
Mechanical ascenders and descenders
Advanced hitch systems and configurations
Equipment Knowledge
Understand how climbing ropes, harnesses, connectors, lanyards, and PPE work together as an integrated system — and why proper equipment selection matters.
Climbing Efficiency & Ergonomics
Modern arborists need to move smarter, not harder. MTCS teaches techniques that improve body positioning, reduce fatigue, and help climbers work more efficiently over long days in the canopy.
The Physics Behind Climbing
Understand the forces acting on anchors, climbing lines, and tree structures so you can make informed decisions while working aloft.
More Than Technique — It’s a Mindset
One of the strongest themes throughout the MTCS program is professionalism and culture change within the arboriculture industry.
The workbook emphasizes that:
“Your actions and choices will affect generations.”
Modern arborists are expected to think critically, communicate clearly, inspect thoroughly, and continuously improve their systems and practices. MTCS helps climbers build that mindset while strengthening practical climbing ability.
Built for Real Arborists
This isn’t theory-only learning.
The Modern Tree Climbing Systems Course is grounded in field-tested techniques used by working arborists every day. From tie-in point selection and load testing to advanced hitch configurations and canopy movement, every topic is built around practical application.
Participants gain exposure to the systems and concepts that are becoming standard across modern arboriculture operations.
Who Should Attend?
The MTCS Course is ideal for:
Professional arborists
Climbers looking to modernize techniques
Crew leaders and trainers
Utility arborists
Arboriculture students and apprentices
Anyone serious about improving climbing safety and performance
If you work in trees — this course is for you.
Ready to Elevate Your Climbing?
The industry is changing. Equipment is evolving. Expectations are rising.
The best climbers never stop learning.
The Modern Tree Climbing Systems Course gives you the tools, systems, and confidence to work safer, climb smarter, and perform at a higher level in today’s arboriculture industry.
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