Pro Landscaper asked rapid questions to gain a little insight from people who make up our industry.
This is what Jennifer Myers (Executive Director, NALP Foundation & Senior Director, Workforce Development) had to say…
“If you weren’t in this industry, what would you be doing?
-Coaching women’s college basketball. I’ve coached girls from 5 to 15, as either a volunteer in rec leagues or as a paid high school coach. If I hadn’t found this industry I love so much, I would have seriously considered coaching as a full time job.
What would you blow your budget on?
-Makeup, indoor plants and pots, travel
Best trend you are seeing.
-Outdoor living spaces being frequently and fully utilized. Also, a more concerted effort to include native plants and others that do well in your area.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?
-Sexism and ageism. Early in my landscaping career (20+ years ago), after a recent promotion, I had a senior male manager tell me I wasn’t qualified for the role because I was: 1) too young, 2) too inexperienced (hadn’t paid my dues) and 3) a woman. This man actually said, to my face, nonchalantly in the office kitchen, that one of the reasons I wasn’t ready to lead was because I was a woman. I was so very fortunate to work for a manager at the time who I felt comfortable sharing this episode with and who supported me in my role (and assured me I was very much qualified).
Best piece of trivia you know?
-Anything and everything about pop culture. But don’t ask me what I ate for dinner last night. No idea.
Couldn’t get through the week without…
-Coffee, NY Times crossword puzzle, cuddles from my family and pup, whatever book I’m reading…
Your most used saying or cliché
-Happy to help! (I really am!) “
Read the other’s answers here: https://issuu.com/eljays44/docs/pl_usa_jan_feb_2022/66
To take part in these questions, email marykate.carson@eljays44.com
