Experience

Landscape Experience: I went to Rochester Community and Technical College and received my associate degree in Horticulture in 2003. The landscape design instructor at that time (a very accomplished local landscape architect) inspired me into becoming a landscape designer. From 2002-2007 I worked at 2 of the larger landscape nurseries in Rochester as a member of the installation crew as well as a job foreman. This experience gave me a better understanding of the time it takes to construct a particular project. In 2008 I was given the opportunity to become a member of the design team with my former employer. It was a very memorable season, during which I drew over 200 landscape plans using a new CAD software specifically engineered for the landscape industry. Knowing I did not want to completely change my career, I did however decide to leave the company I worked 5 years for, despite the uncertain job market in this economy.

The horticulture industry was kind of an easy choice. I grew up working on a family farm 30 miles south of Rochester so horticulture/agriculture is deeply rooted in me. As everyone in the industry in this region knows, this is a seasonal career. Because I never really had an interest in plowing snow or collecting unemployment I found work in other construction trades throughout the winter months.

Woodworking Experience: About 10-12 years ago I started taking an interest in all types of woodworking. My specialty is in custom outdoor structures and furnishings such as arbors, pergolas, planters, and potting benches. On the other hand, I have experience as a cabinet maker and trim carpenter. I enjoy combining the 2 by putting the same methods of joinery and fastening used with cabinetry into my outdoor projects. Because of their consistence in quality and stability I prefer the workability of cabinet grade hardwoods and plywood over any dimensional lumber. However, no completed indoor project is as satisfying to me as seeing a western red cedar arbor or pergola standing in a well-designed backyard landscape. Below are a few photos of my indoor creations.

*Note: These are just a few examples of the quality of work that I am capable of. I share them with you to represent my skill as a woodworker, not to sell cabinets or other indoor projects.