r/ropeaccess 9h ago

What’s a realistic pathway to become a rope access technician (interested in the geotechnical side of things)

1 Upvotes

hi guys

im a complete novice at anything rope access related but for a few months now I‘ve been doing random research and seeing videos of it all over and I’d like to actually try and go somewhere with it.

i’m just unsure if I’m too late to it being 24 years old without any experience. I’ve looked mostly into rockfall protection/geotechnical but all of it does catch my attention honestly. would anyone know if that’s a realistic place to start or with this type of work is it known to start by doing simple tasks ie painting, window cleaning? not sure what one would do after they’ve got their IRATA certificate or if a company can sponsor one to get their IRATA level 1.

i know anyone can go onto the level 1 without any experience but if you’d get this what would the next step be going towards rockfall protection etc.

any information would be good i just want to get a sense of what the pathway would look like

thanks


r/ropeaccess 14h ago

Parallel tickets alongside level 1?

1 Upvotes

Hello,

Another pre-level 1 newbie asking for career advice. I'm an arborist, about to do my level 1 and change direction. I'm interested in heritage glass & building conservation, and will be learning the trade slowly over the next few years. In the meantime, I want to get some time on the ropes, get some hours logged and have another income stream as tree work is getting quite dull for me.

I know as a level 1 without a trade, I'll be restricted to the more unskilled work, although the arb background will be a slight advantage. I'm just wondering, in the meantime, if there are any tickets I can get from short courses that will open a few more doors, without committing to an apprenticeship? I'm considering painter/blaster or slinger/signaller - i'm not sure if it's just as simple as get the ticket and find work, but ideally I am looking for something that simple. Preferences towards construction/building maintenance or wind. Any advice greatly appreciated!