Professional Turf & Landscaping

Professional Turf and Landscaping

Length of Program: 2 Years
Program Instructor: Mr. Cole Carpenter
 
Program Description
This program offers a wide range of challenges to students who enjoy working outdoors with plants as well as with construction materials. Students in this program will experience the planning, installation, and maintenance required to create both beautiful and functional landscapes. The multi-billion dollar “green industry” is now looking for highly skilled individuals willing to work hard to combine their knowledge of plants, construction, and artistic talents to change the face of residential and recreational properties. Experiences include project-based learning where students apply what they have learned in the classroom to practical hands-on activities as well as problem solving. Equipment safety and operation, construction, business skills, and the opportunity to earn landscape and pesticide certification needed for advancement are also emphasized.
Major Topics Introduced in the Course:
  • Plant Identification (Trees, Shrubs, Groundcovers, Perennials, and Annuals)
  • Turf and Landscape Operations (Sports Turf and Residential)
  • Nursery and Garden Center Operations
  • Customer Service and Marketing
  • Business Management and Entrepreneurship
  • Construction (Patio Decks, Paving, and Fencing)
  • Equipment Safety and Operation
  • Landscape Design and Installation
Program Highlights:
  • Planning, installation and maintenance of landscapes
    • Pavers
    • Retaining walls
    • Water features
  • Learn how to operate and maintain equipment used in the turf and landscaping industry
  • Use of Computer Programs to Plan and Build Models
Job Possibilities:
  • Landscape installation & Maintenance
  • Landscape design
  • Lawn care professional
  • Sports turf professional
  • Hardscape installation and maintenance
Post-Secondary Options
To ensure rapid advancement in this growing industry, an associate’s (two-year) degree is strongly recommended at institutions such as: OSU Agricultural Technical Institute, Clark State Community College or Columbus State Community College. In addition, students who qualify will be able to work toward their landscape and pesticide certification credentials.
Students in this program have the opportunity to become members of the FFA Organization. This national youth organization emphasizes personal development, including leadership skills and career development. Membership in FFA also provides students the opportunity to compete in state and local contests.
College Partnerships/Articulation Agreements:
  • Clark State Community College
    • Possible Credits Earned: 7
Certifications Available:
  • Pesticide Certification
Clubs/Organizations/Competitions:
  • FFA
Academic Preparation Needed Before Entering Program:
  • Science
  • Math
  • English
Personality Traits to work in this field:
  • Honest
  • Hardworking
  • Ability to work as part of a team
  • People-oriented
  • Strong work ethic
  • Love of the outdoors
Other Information:
·         The green goods industry is the 2nd largest segment of Ohio’s Industrial sector, with sales revenues of $2.8 billion annually.
                Source: Ohio Nursery and Landscape Association, 2003