Many former service members find stable careers in lawn care and landscaping. The traits developed in the U.S. military, teamwork, tenacity, leadership, and endurance, translate to the professional industry. Employers in this field actively seek these qualities because they form a strong foundation for career advancement.
Leadership and Teamwork
Dan Smalt is a veteran of the United States Navy. He spent 20.5 years in service and earned the rank of Chief Petty Officer. He now works as the lawn division manager with Blades of Green Lawn Care and B.O.G. Pest Control in Edgewater, Maryland.
Smalt believes the military taught him to be responsible, dependable, and flexible. He said the environment is constantly changing, which requires building a team where everyone knows they can rely on their peers.
“The military is a constantly changing environment,” Smalt said. “You have to build a team environment where you know you can rely on others to do their job, and they know they can rely on you to do yours. The same concept applies at Blades of Green and everywhere else in the lawn and landscaping business.”
He also credits diversity in the military for helping him manage his current team. Working with people from many different backgrounds taught him what motivates individuals and how to remove obstacles to their success.
Smalt applies military leadership principles to his management style. He emphasized that a leader must ensure the team has the necessary tools and training to complete the mission.
Transitioning from Military Service to Landscaping Careers
People in the landscaping field come from diverse backgrounds, including those who have been passionate about the work since childhood as well as career-changers who entered the profession later in life.
From Labor to Management
Christopher Goosby served 22 years in the Air Force and Air Force Reserves, reaching the rank of Chief Master Sergeant. He now serves as a regional account manager for Munie Greencare Professionals Inc. in Caseyville, Illinois.
He started his career in the landscaping industry as a laborer six years ago. Over time, he advanced to his current position overseeing Southeast Military Housing Sites. Goosby lists team building as the top skill from his military service that aids him in this role.
He relies on other skills honed during deployments, such as endurance and the ability to adapt quickly to different weather environments. Goosby also values the discipline to accept new challenges daily and the dedication required to succeed in this field.
