Great landscapers create great landscapes, but how do landscapers become great? The only way is through earning an ample amount of experience. For aspiring landscaper Colton Simpson, the path started at the Institute of Applied Agriculture (IAA) and widened with his internship experience this summer. Simpson, a second-year student studying Landscape Management, interned at Outdoor Creations Landscape Services in Southern Maryland.
During his internship, Simpson was fortunate to have had multiple mentors, each having a different specialization and perspective to share. Simpson’s first two internship placements were in the landscape design and landscape sales departments, where he spoke with clients and learned how to price jobs properly. He was also introduced to the design software the company uses, and was taught drafting skills. Simpson also performed site measurements and oversaw the work being done at the sites during this period.
Simpson’s next placements incorporated more hands-on work, starting with a spray tech apprenticeship. He mixed chemicals and sprayed both fertilizers and pesticides on lawns and ornamental plants. He was trained on how to diagnose plant diseases. He was then involved in diagnosing and treating several evergreens for bagworms. The last of Simpson’s assigned jobs was his personal favorite: the “construction crew.” On the crew, he enjoyed having the opportunity to create hardscapes like patios, retaining walls, and concrete pads. He admitted that it was hard work but well worth the result.
When interviewed, Simpson stated that his internship “reinforced his passion of landscaping.” He has gained new insights into many aspects of landscape management and learned skills that he’ll use for the rest of his career. Through his experiences at Outdoor Creations, Simpson is that much closer to being a great landscaper. With a combination of academic knowledge and real world experience, he will someday be a great addition to the industry.
