ONE of the most significant figures in British arboriculture has been named the winner of this year's Arboricultural Association Award. 

In recognition of her positive contribution to the profession, Jo Hedger was presented with the prize by Michelle Ryan at the opening day of the 2024 Arboricultural Association Conference at the University of Warwick.

A six-time world champion climber (the first woman to achieve such a feat), she has not only dedicated her career to growing a leading contracting business, but also founded a training company to help provide the industry with more skilled and competent arborists.

She went to her first ISA competition when it was held at the Highclere Arb Association tradeshow in 2005. Since winning her first world title in St. Louis in 2008, Jo has volunteered her time organising climbing events and helping arborists share techniques and innovations, while also running Arbor Venture Tree Care, an Arboricultural Association Approved Contractor.

Through her business she has demonstrated and promoted exemplary levels of professionalism. With a commitment to the highest levels of skill and safety over the years.

A statement from the AA added: "Jo is recognised as an outstanding ambassador for the tree care community in the UK and around the world. You could argue that she has done more than any figure in history to promote the practical side of the UK tree care industry, as its first truly global ambassador.

Jo Hedger made history in 2023 by becoming the first woman to claim six world titles Jo Hedger made history in 2023 by becoming the first woman to claim six world titles (Image: Supplied)

"She is also a massive proponent of the Approved Contractor accreditation, even citing achieving the standard as a career highlight on a horticulture week podcast.

"In 2023, Jo cemented her place in international climbing history by becoming the first woman to win 6 world championships and the first to win 3 consecutive world titles (2019, 2022, 2023). Jo herself credits the knowledge she has gained from consistently staying involved in the climbing community as crucial to her professional career progression.

"Not only are Jo’s personal competition and professional achievements impressive because of her longevity in both, but also for the passion she has for sharing her knowledge and techniques. Jo is an inspirational figure to peers from all backgrounds thanks to her approachable and humble attitude which she’s always retained."