FNGLA’s Industry Certification Programs

Certification is a set of standards developed, maintained and administered by industry. These standards establish a minimum level of competency for professional members of the industry. Certification is voluntary — as opposed to state licensing — and not required by law to do business. However, certification helps regulate the industry by providing a means by which consumers can identify industry members who have demonstrated their skills and abilities.

Overall, certification raises the standards, the professionalism and the image of an industry.

FNGLA certification provides Florida’s nursery and landscape industry personnel the opportunity to earn professional accreditations distinguishing themselves from others. With the first certification program taking root in 1984, FNGLA’s certifications are a true mark of distinction.

Through extensive written and practical exams, Florida’s nursery and landscape professionals demonstrate proficiency in general horticultural knowledge, plant and pest identification, legal and regulatory issues and fertilizer use, in addition to Best Management Practices, landscape design, landscape installation and landscape management principles. FNGLA’s certified professionals “Know What Grows!”

FNGLA certification gives Florida’s nursery and landscape industry an added measure of credibility by setting a standard for measuring horticulture knowledge. The fact it is developed, and continues to be maintained, by industry assures its relevance. The most important goal of certification is to raise the industry’s level of professionalism.

For industry, certification…

• allows an industry to regulate itself in the absence of state licensure (read about this in Definitions PDF)
  
• increases its professionalism and public image
  
• educates consumers and other end users on the varying levels of service within an industry

For individuals, certification…

• shows your professional commitment and ability to perform to established industry standards
  
• tells your clients you put knowledge and expertise first and pass this on to your customers
  
• improves your job prospects by giving you an advantage over a non-certified person

For businesses, certification …

• markets your professional expertise to allow your business to stand out from competitors
  
• educates your staff AND your customers, establishing trusted relationships & repeat business
  
• qualifies you to bid on jobs that require FNGLA’s certification as a pre-qualification

FNGLA administers four industry certification programs.

	FNGLA Certified Horticulture Professional (FCHP)
	FNGLA Certified Landscape Technician (FCLT)
	FNGLA Certified Landscape Contractor (FCLC)
	FNGLA Certified Landscape Designer (FCLD)

For more information on how you can earn one of FNGLA’s four industry certifications,
please contact at FNGLA:

EMail: Merry Mott  mmott@fngla.org
or Marilyn Sileven msileven@fngla.org.

or call 800.375.3642 (Orlando area, call 407.295.7994).

Click Logo for the "Testing at a Glance" photo album

Annual "Survivor" Certification Chapter Challenge Click here for more information!

Big Bend Tribe Wins 2004-05 Challenge! Information Photos

Pinellas Tribe Wins 2005-06 Challenge! Information Photos

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