Chapter 1 Careers in Floriculture 19 designs from professionals and peers, you are evaluating designs and forming precise conclusions about formal qualities, intent, meaning, and historical and cultural infl uences. Many student competitions include both team and individual events. Participating in team events will help you learn how to work effectively with others and improve your communication skills. The criteria upon which designs are judged may vary slightly between competitions, but they are all based on the basic design principles of fl oral design, which are covered in detail in Chapter 6, Principles of Design. Other categories that may be considered include mechanical concealment, conformance with requirements, proper interpretation, creativity or artistic concept, deliverability, and pricing. Most student competitions also include fl ower and plant recognition. Each competition has its own set of rules and regulations. Most organizations post rules and restrictions on their website as soon as the contest and registration dates are announced. You must know the rules to lessen the chance of costly errors. For example, a maximum height is often given as a restriction for a particular design. If you create a piece that exceeds the limit, it may be disqualifi ed. Some competitions allow contestants to bring their own tool kits. The restrictions vary by competition, and you will be provided a list of what is allowed. Be sure to follow instructions regarding the tool kit so that you do not bring something that is not allowed. Eligibility requirements, fees, and registration deadlines may also be found online or through your instructor. In addition to the FFA CDE competitions described earlier, state fl oral associations sponsor competitions at a variety of skill levels. College students may join student chapters of the American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD) to further hone their skills and compete at a higher level. Continuing Education Even after getting a degree and beginning their careers, successful fl orists continue to learn. Continuing education includes classes, hands-on programs, design demonstrations, and conferences, Figure 1-17. The purpose of continuing education is to keep your skills current and to learn about the latest in new materials, applications, and designs. High schools, community colleges, trade schools, and independent fl oral design schools provide continuing education opportunities. Professionals who want to excel in the fi eld of fl oral design continually seek design education, increasing their knowledge base and expanding their abilities to meet the current markets’ needs and trends. Pro Tip Pay special attention to instructions given before the contest begins and speak only when you are asked a question. butterfl y lady/Shutterstock.com Figure 1-17. Continuing education programs and fl oral industry symposiums highlight contemporary styles and help fl orists stay connected to industry trends. For instance, this stunning wedding table and backdrop example would be produced at a convention so designers would not only learn about it but experience it fi rsthand. Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.