Chapter 1 Careers in Floriculture 21 from their supply vendors. For example, a wholesale company may host an event with a cut fl ower care and handling specialist to discuss or demonstrate the latest products to preserve fl ower longevity. Wholesale fl orists also offer business and marketing seminars presented by experts in their fi elds to better equip retail fl orists for day-to-day operations. Certifi cation Employers throughout the fl oriculture industry prefer to hire fl oral designers who have the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to perform their jobs well. Certifi cation is one of the best methods of proving to prospective employers that you have the necessary knowledge and skills. By becoming certifi ed, you can greatly increase the probability that you can fi nd a good job within the fl oriculture industry. State Certifi cation Many state fl oral associations offer certifi cation programs, Figure 1-19. For example, the Texas State Florists’ Association offers a certifi cation program for high school students in addition to several other certifi cation categories, including Texas Certifi ed Florist, Texas Master Florist, and Texas Master Florist Advanced certifi cation. The Michigan Floral Association is another example of a state association that provides certifi cation to qualifi ed fl orists. To be certifi ed, you typically take a test, with or without a hands-on component. Some agencies require that you take a specifi c course or courses prior to taking the certifi cation test. Contact your individual state association for requirements. Jacob Lund/Shutterstock.com Figure 1-19. In addition to the hands-on work you will do in the lab, you will have to attend class, study, research, and work as a team. The skills you acquire in class will carry over to the many student competitions in which you may compete. Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.