OFA – The Association of Horticulture Professionals congratulates Juan Tracy of Flowers at the Falls in Idaho Falls, Idaho, and Rhonda Stibbe of Waubonsie Valley High School in Aurora, Illinois, for becoming Certified Florists.
A self-study certification program, the CF program provides recognition for a standardized, professional level of knowledge and expertise in the retail florist industry. The program, endorsed by the National Alliance of Floral Associations, offers training and testing on both the business aspects of operating a floral business and design skills.
To become a Certified Florist, individuals must pass both the written and hands-on portions of an exam. The written portion topics include: product identification, care and handling, floral design, display and visual merchandising, and sales and customer service. Participants must demonstrate the practical application of their knowledge by designing several arrangements.
For more details about registering for the Certified Florist program and testing, visit www.ofa.org/ocf.aspx.
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About the organization: OFA – The Association of Horticulture Professionals is the leading horticulture educational association in the United States. It is a non-profit, all-industry, educational organization and its core purpose/mission is “to support and advance professional horticulture.” Industry segments served include: garden centers, greenhouses, nurseries, retail and wholesale florists, and interior plantscapers. OFA is especially known for its outstanding publications and its annual OFA Short Course, U.S. horticulture’s premier convention and marketplace. The next Short Course will take place on July 14-17, 2012 in Columbus, Ohio USA.
Source: OFA – The Association of Horticulture Professionals