In 1987, Jim Harris stepped into his first tree climbing competition and discovered a calling that would shape the rest of his life. He did not win that day. He finished near the bottom. But he completed every event, including Aerial Rescue, and walked away with something bigger than a trophy: a lifelong commitment to the craft.

From that moment forward, Jim dedicated himself to rope work. He immersed himself in the tree climbing community, attending events, learning from mentors, and raising his standards. In 1994, he earned his Certified Arborist credential and has never stopped sharpening his edge, training, competing, and teaching where pressure is high and mistakes are unforgiving.

His breakthrough came on the world stage. After winning the PNW Chapter, Jim advanced to the World Finals in Halifax, Nova Scotia, where he took first place overall and earned the title of World Champion in Tree Climbing.

That victory confirmed what Jim already believed: skill matters, but preparation matters more. He founded Arborman Tree Climbing School to help climbers and arborists develop the skills they need to keep them safe and prepared. His programs are focused, practical training that produces confidence under pressure. Jim trains with individualized coaching, clear standards, and zero shortcuts.

Around 2021, he expanded into rope access and achieved Level 3 Rope Access Technician. In rope access, being rescue-ready is non-negotiable. If someone on rope needs help, you move. You act. You bring them home safely. That standard of readiness, responsibility, and calm under pressure is at the heart of everything he teaches.