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Author: kgarman

Reputation Matters in Hardscaping: Building a Reputation Through Professional Networks

While delivering high-quality work is essential for building a strong reputation in hardscaping, professional relationships play an equally crucial role.

Networking within the industry can lead to new opportunities, collaborations, and valuable mentorships that help long-time hardscapers and aspiring hardscapers grow in their careers.

The Importance of Community and Mentorship

Cultivating strong professional relationships can open doors to new opportunities and ensure a steady flow of projects.

“Word-of-mouth has been one of the most influential factors in my hardscaping career. Building strong, respectful relationships helps you become a top choice for referrals. One of the fastest ways to achieve this is by responding to all inquiries promptly—whether you have the answer or not. Quick responses show that you’re engaged, reliable, and committed to addressing people’s needs, which builds trust and confidence. While it may seem simple, this habit fosters respect and strengthens professional connections,” said Trevor Fearn, VP Operations at CornerStone Wall Solutions Inc.

Trevor Fearn (center) is pictured with his colleagues at Hardscape North America.

“By prioritizing responsiveness and reliability, I’ve been able to unlock new opportunities and advance my career. Being at the top of a professional’s referral list is a powerful asset in this industry.”

Organizational Support

Organizations like the Concrete Masonry & Hardscapes Association (CMHA) support both the craftsmanship and relationship-building aspects that are key to a good reputation in the industry. Industry events and trade shows offer invaluable networking opportunities for both new and experienced hardscapers.

Vear strongly recommends attending trade events like Hardscape North America, which is hosted by CMHA. These gatherings provide not just education but crucial networking opportunities with manufacturers and fellow professionals.

“If you can get to HNA, that’s absolute—you have to go to that. If you’re in this industry and you don’t go to HNA, you are missing out on everything,” Vear said.

For Dan Hughes, President and Owner of Segmental Systems Inc., building a national network of hardscapers has been integral to growing his skills and knowledge. He credits CMHA with the connections that have bolstered his business into an industry leader.

“I used to look at these guys that were involved and they’re writing articles and magazines, and they’re doing stuff. And I know who these guys were. As I got involved in the organization, I’m actually now friends with these guys that used to be my mentors,” Hughes said. “…And I’ve made some great friends. But it’s being involved that really grew me as a professional and really elevated my level of knowledge in the industry. The discussions that I have, both within meetings and outside meetings, with these individuals are some of the best, most intelligent conversations you can have about the industry.”

Dan Hughes, President and Owner of Segmental Systems Inc. (center) is pictured at Hardscape North America.

Unlocking Opportunities Through Networking

Networking is also about maintaining existing relationships. Whether it’s keeping in touch with past clients, staying active in professional circles, or engaging with peers online, relationships built over time can lead to unexpected job opportunities and partnerships.

“Networking is key to growing in this industry. I stay active in professional associations like CMHA, attend trade shows, and participate in training workshops to connect with peers and suppliers. Social media platforms, such as LinkedIn, also help me showcase my work and engage with others in the field. Additionally, maintaining strong relationships with industry professionals has opened doors to new opportunities and collaborations,” Fearn said.

“The key is to provide value—whether that’s sharing insights, offering help, or simply staying in touch consistently.”

For job seekers looking to break into hardscaping, the key to success lies in both relationships and quality work. Your reputation will determine how many doors open for you, and word-of-mouth can be your strongest asset. Be sure to check out our companion blog post, Reputation Matters in Hardscaping: Building a Reputation Through Quality Work, on how delivering high-quality work strengthens your professional reputation.

Lessons from a ‘Once-in-a-Lifetime’ Hardscaping Project: Downtown Ecosystem in Springfield, Illinois

When Landon Kirby, owner of Knob Hill Landscape Company, first visited the site for what would become the Downtown Ecosystem, he knew this was a “once-in-a-lifetime project.”

Nestled in the heart of downtown Springfield, Illinois, the Downtown Ecosystem is a living, breathing example of what’s possible with sustainable landscaping and hardscaping. What began as a client’s need to replace a 50-year-old concrete fountain evolved into a full ecosystem designed to recreate nature’s filtration processes and support aquatic life without the use of chemicals.

Kirby said they originally pitched two concepts for the project – one within the existing fountain footprint and the second that captured this larger educational opportunity and unique landscape. The client felt the same passion as Kirby and went for option two.

Mimicking Mother Nature

“My very first time I went there for a site visit I immediately got the thought of this ecosystem and the ponds and the waterfalls because the terrain was kind of rolling. I just got to thinking that this is a great opportunity because ecosystems are very neat, how they work, being all naturally filtered and very unique if you know how the whole system works,” Kirby said.

“You’re mimicking Mother Nature and the natural ecosystem. You’re showing how the water can be cleared without chemicals, how the fish play a part. The aquatic plants play a part, the waterfalls with the oxygenation of the water for the fish, and it just kept hitting me – this is a great opportunity to teach people about this.”

The educational opportunities also fell in line with the client’s mission, as their company works with educators and teachers.

“This is the perfect opportunity and they really thought the same thing. They trusted our vision,” Kirby said.

Sustainable Transformation

Transforming this space into a fully functional ecosystem was no small task.

At the north end of the ecosystem, a wetland filter was carefully constructed to naturally cleanse the water as it flows through multiple layers of river rock. This method mimics marshy areas near rivers and lakes, ensuring water clarity and a thriving habitat. On the opposite end, an intake bay with pumps pre-filters the water before recirculating it through the system.

The design also features three waterfalls, not just for aesthetics but to enhance oxygenation and improve the environment for fish. Additional features like strategically placed woody materials support beneficial microorganisms, and fish play a crucial role in the ecosystem by feeding on algae and producing nutrients for plant life.

The project included 2,000 square feet of permeable pavers. The permeable paver patio joints between the pavers were filled with granite chips, allowing the rainwater to penetrate the pavers. This prevents any storm water runoff from entering the ecosystem and possibly contaminating the water source.

And to top it off, Kirby’s team of eight built this space over 101 days in the heart of an Illinois winter.

“In Illinois, the winters are pretty sketchy. We do get snow. We do freeze. We actually started that project the first week of November and we finished the last week of April. We were really worried at first, but it was the only project we were working on in the winter, so it allowed every employee to be focused on it,” Kirby said.

“…It was a once-in-a-lifetime project and I recognized it. All our employees recognized it. We all treated it like that. We didn’t cut any corners. We just tried to make it the best we absolutely could.”

The effort paid off. The project won a National Association of Landscape Professions “Gold” Award of Excellence in 2023 and at the 2024 Hardscape North America awards, it won the Combination of Hardscape Products – Commercial category.

“We’re from a relatively small market and we are still a relatively small company. To be recognized on that level is very special. It puts things in perspective and takes away a lot of all those stresses and things that you worry about so much,” Kirby said. “Our employees love it. It means the world to me for them to be recognized for their skills.”

Always Evolving

For aspiring hardscapers who want to one day be part of their own award-winning projects, Kirby advises that every project should be a learning opportunity.

“Always know that you can be better than you were yesterday,” Kirby said. “We won a national award, but we also still understand that we could have done something better. There’s a long list of things that we would improve from this project after having done it. Learn from every project and just have that mindset of continuously wanting to get better.”

Kirby’s favorite part of the Downtown Ecosystem project is the way it changes over time. He has been working with the client to lead tours and field trips for students to share and educate about the ecosystem and he said that he discovers something new on every visit.

“That’s one of the things with ecosystems, they’re always evolving because they are living and growing and changing,” Kirby said.

“Every time I go there, I notice something different that’s changed or a new plant that’s popped up and growing out of the boulders all of a sudden. Some of those seeds could have been on those boulders for hundreds of years, and now, all of a sudden, it’s the right conditions and now they’re sprouting grass out of the boulders. It’s amazing.”

The original request was for a fountain repair, but Knob Hill Landscaping saw an opportunity to create something much bigger. The Downtown Ecosystem isn’t just an award-winning project—it’s a new benchmark for what’s possible in urban landscapes.

Lessons for Aspiring Hardscapers from an Award-Winning Backyard

With a remarkable 215 project submissions across 19 categories in 2024, the recent Hardscape North America (HNA) Awards offered a reminder that an award-winning project isn’t just about technical perfection. It’s about creating spaces that transform how people live, entertain, and connect with their outdoor environments.

Among the standout projects was New Castle Lawn & Landscape’s Miller Project, which won the Combination of Hardscape Products – Residential (less than 3,000 sq ft) category.

This stunning backyard transformation, led by New Castle designer Phil Neri, offers inspiration for aspiring hardscape professionals looking to create their own industry-defining projects.

Mission Accomplished

The Miller family approached New Castle Lawn & Landscape with a clear request: they needed a large, functional outdoor space to entertain their big family.

“We were lucky to have a client who knew exactly what they wanted and had the budget to make it happen,” Neri said. “It was really exciting to bring the design to life and include all the details—it turned out great.”

In addition to a pool, the transformed backyard would include an expansive covered entertainment area and an outdoor kitchen with a grill, bar, fireplace, and lots of seating.

Using the design of the pool as their starting point, Neri and his team were able to establish a layout that would guide the rest of the project. The roof structure became the defining element, setting the stage for the dual living spaces that anchor the backyard. From there, the team incorporated a raised patio with a pergola, a rustic-modern mix of materials, and a show-stopping lighting feature that creates a “starry night” effect.

“We like to keep a few surprises up our sleeves when it comes to our designs. During the final presentation, I paused and said, ‘There’s one more thing I’d like to show you.’ With a click of a button, the small recessed lights within the patio flickered on. Instantly, without hesitation, they said, ‘Yes, we want that,’” Neri recalled.

“Having software that allows people to be able to see what things are going to look like is a tremendous help. It gets them excited about that product even before you put a shovel in the ground.”

The Art of Blending Materials

Another standout aspect of the Miller Project is its seamless integration of various materials.

Every element was carefully considered, from the rustic-modern aesthetic to the strategic material selection. Neri and his team used a mix of Techno-Bloc pavers, natural stone, and hemlock wood to create a cohesive and visually striking environment. This mix not only enhanced the project’s visual appeal but also demonstrated how diverse materials can complement each other when thoughtfully arranged.

Neri said he tries to recommend a blend of products in his designs so things don’t get stale. As a designer, it’s his job to guide the client so they don’t get overwhelmed by all of the choices.

“Right from the start, we guide our clients by saying, ‘Based on what you’ve told us and your style, here’s our recommendation—this is how it will look,’” Neri said. “And we do a great job. Nine times out of ten, only minor tweaks are needed to material choices because we’ve listened carefully and nailed their vision.”

Lessons for Aspiring Hardscapers

For those looking to one day create award-winning projects of their own, Neri encourages aspiring hardscapers to learn every aspect of the business.

“Take it all in while you can—learn as much as you can, from fieldwork to the selling process to designing within budgets,” Neri said.

He also encourages people new to the field to seek mentorship and to consider collaboration.

“Establish good relationships with other companies. Learning from those outside your immediate area can be incredibly valuable,” Neri said.

A Community of Inspiration

Winning a Hardscape North America Project Award is no small feat, especially considering the incredible talent across the industry. For Neri, the recognition is both an honor and a reminder of the community in hardscaping.

“I was pretty excited,” he said. “Winning a national award has been something on my to do list. There’s a lot of competition out there. I look at some of the work these other guys do and think, ‘Wow! How did we get chosen for this?’ There are a lot of guys out there killing it and doing phenomenal work. I think we all inspire each other.”

For those aspiring to make their mark in hardscaping, the Miller Project offers a blueprint: Listen to your clients, be creative, and never stop learning.

Hardscaping: The Perfect Career for Lifelong Learners

A Strong Foundation for Success

Lee Krinzman, Director of Education & Certification at the Concrete Masonry & Hardscapes Association (CMHA), said there are comprehensive educational opportunities available to industry newcomers and veterans alike.

“For anyone new to hardscaping, Hardscapingis.com is the perfect place to start. The site outlines training and educational opportunities, industry insights, and career guidance to help build a strong foundation,” Krinzman said. “Hardscaping offers a variety of career paths—including installation, design, sales, and business ownership—and the website outlines these opportunities to help you find the right fit. With these resources, you’ll gain the skills and confidence with the right footing to start a successful hardscaping career!”

Staying the Course

What makes hardscaping particularly appealing to learning enthusiasts is its multi-faceted nature. Each specialization requires its own set of skills and knowledge, allowing professionals to continuously expand their expertise or even transition between different roles as their interests evolve.

“CMHA offers four main installer courses for anyone in the Hardscaping or Masonry Industry. We have numerous other certificate courses for people new to the industry, sales staff, and those who just want to know best practices in the industry,” Krinzman said. “Over the past 2-3 years, CMHA has updated our installer courses with best practices for the industry and we encourage anyone looking to learn more to take our courses.”

View In Person Courses

View Online Courses

Andrew Vear, a hardscaping industry consultant with decades of experience in installation, said he encourages people to jump at any opportunity to take a CMHA course.

“It’s one of the best ways to just gain knowledge about what you’re doing and why you’re doing something. Why are we putting in 6 inches of base? Why are we putting 8 inches of base? Why we would only need to put in 4 inches? I mean it explains all of these things so it’s not a mystery,” Vear said. “…The CMHA courses are a huge leap forward. It’s so much easier when you take a class that is in your field. It’s not like a math class where you are like, ‘I don’t understand how all this goes together.’ It’s specifically designed for the installation of pavers so you’re taking a real shortcut. You’re not learning a bunch of stuff you don’t need.”

Commitment to Continuous Improvement

Continuing education and staying updated with evolving industry standards are crucial for hardscaping career longevity.

In addition to a formal education and taking courses, connecting with professionals, attending trade shows, and joining trade organizations can help hardscapers stay informed about emerging trends and new technologies.

“Networking with industry experts, joining trade organizations, and staying updated on trends through webinars and trade shows can further enhance knowledge and skills,” Krinzman said. “The more hands-on practice and industry exposure they gain, the more confident and prepared they’ll be for a successful career in hardscaping.”

Online resources, including YouTube tutorials, webinars, and social media communities, can provide further opportunities to learn and grow.

“Stay curious, adaptable, and committed to learning. The more knowledge and experience you gain, the greater your potential for success,” Krinzman advised.

For lifelong learners, hardscaping provides more than just a career – it offers a path of continuous growth and achievement. With a wide array of educational resources, diverse specialization options, and a strong emphasis on practical skill development, the field perfectly suits those who find joy in learning and satisfaction in mastering new challenges.

Crafting Sacred Spaces: How the Award-Winning ‘Garden of the Empty Tomb’ Showcases Creative Options in Hardscaping

Blending creativity and craftsmanship, the award-winning “Garden of the Empty Tomb” at Alto-Reste Park in Altoona, Pennsylvania reveals new options for building meaningful and lasting legacies through hardscaping.

A Vision Brought to Life

The “Garden of the Empty Tomb” was conceptualized by Geoff Behrens, Alto Reste’s general manager, who envisioned a memorial garden replicating the Jesus’ Empty Tomb, a significant element in Christian tradition.

Behrens wanted the wall to look like ancient Israel with 12 monoliths to symbolize the 12 tribes of Israel and columbariums in the 325-foot-long wall where people can be laid to rest. With the rise in cremations, this garden was designed to provide a sacred space for people’s loved ones.

Richard Kerr Jr., President of Kerr Landscaping and Maintenance Inc., was challenged to bring this special vision to life.

“Whenever you’re doing a project, you’re trying to build a selling point that people will come and buy into. So, whenever you’re creating something like this, it has to be something that whenever somebody walks in and they see it, it’s like, ‘I’m sold on this. This is awesome. This is where I want to be,’” Kerr said.

“A project like this, I mean, you’re dealing with thousands of people that this will be their last resting place.”

Kerr said the original plan called for temporary walls that would be removed and reinstalled in different phases. Then he remembered the Outcropping wall system product line from Rosetta Hardscapes and producer R.I. Lampus. It replicates the look and beauty of natural stone while still having the installation efficiencies of precast concrete products. Kerr thought it would get the right look while also being more cost-effective in the long run.

“The success of this project was really based on the contractor, Richard, really identifying the problem and the need of the customer and positioning a product that he thought was the right fit,” said Gerry Garcia, business consultant for project and construction strategy for Rosetta Hardscapes. “It really tells the story of what our product can achieve well beyond its aesthetic value. We’re very unique. It has an opportunity to fit certain needs that other products can’t.”

Redefining What is Possible

Projects like this require more than technical skill; they demand a vision and the ability to consider creative options to bring that vision to life. Kerr advises hardscaping newcomers to immerse themselves in the industry, learn from seasoned professionals, and embrace different opportunities.

“Be working with somebody that does do it and get some experience on working on a project of that size. You gotta be around it to do it,” he said.

For those considering a career in hardscaping, “Garden of the Empty Tomb” is a compelling reminder of the industry’s potential to craft spaces that are not only visually stunning but also deeply meaningful.

“The sky’s the limit with where hardscaping can go and the projects that can be entertained to be built,” Kerr said. “We are always striving to do something bigger and better and cooler. I use the word ‘cool’ because the project was so cool for us to be involved in. There’s nothing else like it that I’m aware of.”

A Prestigious Recognition

“The Garden of the Empty Tomb” was recognized at the 2024 Hardscape North America (HNA) for Best Commercial Retaining Wall.

“It was getting recognition locally. But to be able to put it at HNA, to win – that was phenomenal,” Garcia said. “…It’s really recognizing and really putting the spotlight on the guys that make our product what it is and make it look as good as it does.”

Garcia said it was emotionally touching to see Kerr and his team win the award. For his part, Kerr said it was an “once in a lifetime” dream.

“I was quite honored to be there. To have a town as little as our own in that running, I was quite honored to be involved even in the conversation. And then we got lucky enough to win,” Kerr said.

“I don’t think you can get much higher of an award in the hardscaping business than that award. If there is something out there bigger than that HNA award, I don’t know about it. It’s a pretty big deal for us. I accomplished something in my lifetime that not many people will.”

Building with Team Spirit: Former Team Athletes Thrive in Hardscaping Careers

The qualities that make athletes successful on the field—teamwork, discipline, resilience, and a drive to achieve—are the same traits that play a role in a successful hardscaping career.

Just as athletes rely on their teammates to execute plays and adapt to challenges, hardscaping projects require collaboration and trust among crew members to transform a concept into a finished product.

Frank Gandora, President of Creative Hardscape Company in Lakewood, Colorado, said this is why he likes to ask job seekers for positions with his company if they ever played team sports.

Frank Gandora, President of Creative Hardscape Company

“You ever play soccer? You ever play basketball? You ever play baseball or football? Did you ever play volleyball?” Gandora said. “The reason I ask is that you work as a team in hardscaping. You have to anticipate what the next step is going to be and you have to work together congruently. I found people that have played sports in high school or college understand how it is to work with somebody else and not take all the glory. That’s very, very important.”

Rob Goossens, Vice President of Precise Paving, Inc. in West Palm Beach, Florida, echoed this sentiment, noting that team dynamics play a big role in the success of a project.

Rob Goossens, Vice President of Precise Paving, Inc.

“Skill set is great, but the person and the attitude make a bigger difference. We’ve had a lot of really skilled guys come in, but with a bad attitude, it’s detrimental to the whole crew,” Goossens said.

Goossens has played a number of team sports, but soccer is where he really excelled. He played all through his schooling, including at the collegiate level, playing on the team at Flagler College.

“I think that attitude correlates a lot with my soccer teams. Most of my teams that did well, we got along. We were positive. The teams that had a divide and would fight, they underperformed.”

Team sports can also prepare you to work well with people from different backgrounds, a critical skill in today’s diverse workforce.

“When I went to Flagler, we had people from all different countries and backgrounds and ethnicities on the team,” Goossens said. “…At our company, we have a lot of people from different backgrounds. Being able to get along even though we have differences is a skill set that carried over from my sports career.”

Goossens said there is an element of competition in hardscaping that appeals to an athlete’s determination and drive.

“With soccer, there’s a lot of stuff that goes on behind the scenes with training your skill sets – physical abilities, mental abilities. That definitely helped me as a person and as a business person. The routines and the disciplines that helped out with soccer is definitely correlated and related exactly to what I do with hardscape and construction,” Goossens said.

Knowing that the behind-the-scenes training is what gets you to winning on the field also plays a role in understanding the industry. And like scoring the game-winning goal, there’s nothing quite like standing back at the end of a project and saying, “We built that.”

“It’s tough because sometimes you’re grinding and you’re working hard and a lot of the fruits of our labor, you don’t see until six months, a year, two years down the road. In my earlier days, I would get frustrated. It may take some time to see all the extra hours, the early hours pay off,” Goossens said. “…But making a mark in your community and its development, it’s pretty cool.”

For former athletes, hardscaping offers the perfect career path to take your skills off the field and build something tangible and lasting.

Transforming Public Spaces: Inside European Pavers Southwest’s Award-Winning Hardscape at Scottsdale Civic Center Plaza

The Scottsdale Civic Center Plaza, a nine-acre public gathering space in downtown Scottsdale, Arizona, has been a community cornerstone for over 50 years. As part of a $27.5 million bond-funded renovation, the plaza underwent a complete overhaul to modernize its infrastructure and aesthetics while enhancing its year-round usability.

European Pavers Southwest played a crucial role in transforming this urban oasis, earning national recognition for their work. Their efforts were celebrated at the 2024 Hardscape North America (HNA) Awards, where they took home the top prize in the Segmental Concrete Pavement – Commercial (less than 15,000 sf) category. The event recognized outstanding hardscape projects from 215 submissions across 19 categories.

European Pavers has built up a reputation for municipal work, especially in Arizona, and she was thrilled when they were selected to take on this Scottsdale project.

“It was a huge project,” Kimberly Miller, President of European Pavers Southwest, said. “It’s our reputation. We’ve been here for so long in Arizona and throughout the Southwest. People know our workmanship. They know that we return our phone calls. They know we show up for punch lists. They know we’re honest,” Miller said.

Reimagining an Iconic Public Space

Scottsdale Civic Center Plaza consists of nine acres of pristine open public space constructed over 50 years ago in the heart of downtown Scottsdale, Arizona. With a bond-funded $27.5 million budget, the Civic Center Plaza Renovation Project included upgraded utilities, regraded and drained landscapes, and newly installed hardscapes. Key additions include two multi-functional stages, restroom facilities, a children’s play area with a mist-fog system, and expansive pedestrian walkways designed with eye-catching pavers.

European Pavers Southwest worked on four distinct areas of the revamped plaza. Their award-winning section spans 4,800 square feet and showcases an intricate series of concentric and patterned circles crafted with various types of stones and permeable pavers.

The project took about four weeks to complete. The visually striking design required technical precision, expert craftsmanship, and honest feedback. These are the qualities that have built the company’s impressive reputation throughout Arizona and the Southwest.

Crafting for Community Impact

Miller finds deep satisfaction in contributing to public works that the entire community can enjoy.

“I love those jobs because they’re so high profile,” she said. “It’s something that somebody’s going to see.”

The plaza’s pavers, supplied by Ackerstone, perfectly complemented the design vision crafted by the City of Scottsdale. This collaborative effort highlights how hardscaping goes beyond construction—it’s an art form that can redefine public spaces.

With a complete overhaul, the site’s new layout is designed so that all nine acres of the plaza can be utilized throughout the year. The existing hardscape was removed, and an extensive grading operation lowered the grade by as much as six feet in some areas. Several hills were moved to enhance the view of the park. New decorative hardscape and pedestrian walkways—a combination of concrete and pavers—made this linear civic space more inviting to users and visitors.

A Surprising Win

With 215 project submissions across 19 categories, the 2024 Hardscape North America (HNA) Awards showcased hardscaping excellence in materials such as concrete pavers, clay bricks, retaining walls, adhered thin veneers, porcelain, natural stone, and vintage installations.

European Pavers Southwest took home the top prize in the Segmental Concrete Pavement – Commercial (less than 15,000 sf) category for its work on the Scottsdale Civic Center Plaza.

Despite their stellar work, the European Pavers team was genuinely surprised when their project was announced as the first-place winner.

Because of the way they saw the boards displayed at HNA, they thought they had gotten fourth place and the photos were just being shown as additional project examples.

“Needless to say, we were all shocked!” European Pavers posted on Facebook with the announcement of their win.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Hardscapers

European Pavers Southwest’s success at the HNA Awards proves that hardscaping is more than laying stones—it’s about shaping environments, telling stories through design, and leaving lasting legacies.

For aspiring hardscapers, projects like Scottsdale Civic Center Plaza show how creativity and craftsmanship can blend into something truly remarkable.

As Miller summed up, “We take pride in what we do. Saying I’m proud of my team is an understatement.”

Seasonal vs. Year-Round – What to Know When Applying for Hardscaping Jobs

The hardscaping industry offers rewarding career opportunities, but working year-round can be sometimes be tough due to seasonal slowdowns. However, longtime hardscaping experts and business owners say that aspiring hardscape professionals can find full-time work in the industry if they are able to show initiative, be flexible, and adapt to changing needs.

Starting with Initiative

Frank Gandora, President of Creative Hardscape Company in Lakewood, Colorado, has been in the industry since the early 1980s. He recalled that he took a construction trades class in high school and he wanted to immediately put it into action.

“I drove up to this job site, just got my license, 16 years old. I had a 4-foot level in one hand, my tool bag in the other. I saw this guy chomping on a cigar, looking on at the job site. I figured he was the boss and I went up to him with the tools in my hand as I walked up. I didn’t just hop out saying, ‘You guys hiring?’ I walked with the tools in my hand,” Gandora said.

“He looked at my level, chomped on a cigar. He looked at my tool bag. He didn’t say a word. He pointed to the scaffold. I knew what that meant, young, ambitious person I was. I literally ran to the scaffold.”

While the hiring practices might look a little different today, initiative like Gandora’s is exactly what employers are looking for.

Qualities Employers Value

Bob Goossens, President of Precise Paving, Inc. in West Palm Beach, Florida, said he is always looking to hire full-time employees that are “enthusiastic, hungry for employment, and punctual.” He tries not to hire seasonal employees as training is an ongoing effort.

“We always offer our employees a minimum 40-hour work week even if a project has scheduling or material delays. We use this time to service equipment or do odds and ends around our yard and warehouse,” Goossens said.

Renee Redding, the owner of Logan’s Landscaping in Scarborough, Maine, echoed the importance of being proactive and reliable.

“If you’re looking to jump into our industry, you better be somebody that’s looking to jump hard. You need to be a leader on your crews. You need to be a leader to your boss and absorbing, taking it in, understanding, doing exactly what they’re asking you to do so that you have that place 12 months a year. They won’t get rid of you if you’re making them money. That’s a fact,” Redding said.

Adapting to the Seasons

Redding has been a business owner for almost 10 years, but has been in the industry since high school. When she first started, there was a time when hardscaping was seasonal, but now improvements in technology and tools have changed the environment. She doesn’t consider it a “slow season,” as much as it is a time to shift gears or to prepare for the future.

“When I talk to people about it, they’re like, ‘Oh, you must get many months off.’ We switch. We go into masonry. We can tent something. We will heat it. We will accelerate it. There are other things that we do work on in the wintertime. There’s a lot of equipment to work on. There’s a lot of things to get ready for the following season. You just have to make yourself useful and you can manage to have a business 12 months a year, even as far up here as Maine,” Redding said, noting that last year she did a patio project in February.

“There are a lot of companies that their seasonal change will allow them to keep employees on. They don’t want to lose good guys because it’s seasonal work, so they will dip into snow. That’s a natural progression for a lot of companies,” Redding said. “If you’ve got some really good skills that will allow you to stay on in most cases.”

The Value of Long-Term Commitment

Redding also stressed the importance of retaining skilled workers.

“It’s really crucial that when you train those people and you train those people to do something the way you want it done, or way that it should be done, that you maintain those people. If not, they’re going to be your competitors down the road. We have a big incentive to keep them full time,” she said.

Gandora said his work is focused primarily on commercial projects, which allows for year-round operations. He is always looking for a full-time workforce that can be flexible.

“When I was doing residential, I wasn’t working for three months a year because of snow in the backyard and the ground being frozen. I switched over to my commercial work and home builder work. We’re doing much bigger projects with big machines. You’re not worried about frost,” Gandora said. “Instead, we ask, ‘Can you work out of state? Can you work a hundred miles from here in a ski resort application for two weeks at a time?’” Gandora said.

Exploring Industry Roles Beyond the Job Site

Gandora also noted that there are so many different ways to work in hardscaping beyond physical labor, which expands the options for full-time employment.

“It’s not just about backbreaking hard work laying pavers. You have the marketing side of it – developing brochures, developing marketing and advertising campaigns. You have the management side of it, developing and managing crews and coordinating projects. You have the business side of it, you know, negotiating with your suppliers, trying to figure out the best products to use, the most economical products to use, and so on. You have the accounting side of it. You could spend your whole life just doing the accounting side, no different than any other industry,” Gandora said.

“When people look at hardscaping they think of it, ‘Oh, I see a brick paver. It’s heavy and I’ll go home with a sore back.’ That’s 5% of the industry. There’s so much more. And the sore backs are going away because of the tools and innovative equipment and technologies coming in to help make our job easier.”

From fieldwork to management, marketing, and beyond, there are numerous paths to explore. Showing initiative, being flexible, and staying committed can help aspiring professionals build a rewarding, year-round career in the hardscaping industry.

Check out some of the career paths.

Inspiring Artistry and Creativity in Hardscaping: Lessons from JPave’s Award-Winning Project

Breaking into the hardscape industry can feel like a big leap, but the recent 2024 Hardscape North America (HNA) Awards was a reminder that great things come from creativity, passion, and a willingness to push boundaries. With a remarkable 215 project submissions across 19 categories submitted in 2024, the competition highlighted the creativity and expertise within the field.

Among the standout projects was one that should especially inspire newcomers to the field: JPave’s “Grown Expectations,” a residential patio that redefines what’s possible in small spaces.

Jason and Jennifer Stewart, owners of JPave in Smithville, MO, took home top honors in the Segmental Concrete Pavement – Residential (less than 3,000 square feet) category. Their award-winning patio design used a combination of brickwork and pavers to create the impression of a vine weaving through the space, connecting a pergola, firepit, water feature, and dining area.

For Jason Stewart, this design was a long time in the making.

“I actually designed a variation of that idea for two prior customers, but nobody ever wanted it until this customer. I think with this particular project, the space that was allowed, the things they already had in place, and what they wanted and requested, it just flows so beautifully,” he explained.

For those new to the industry, Jason’s experience highlights the importance of finding a balance between artistic vision and customer needs. It’s all about understanding your clients’ preferences and finding creative ways to bring those ideas to life. This project, for instance, stayed true to the home’s overall aesthetic.

“It was a traditional design. The home is a traditional home. The front is all red brick, so it definitely matched the style of the home,” Jason shared. “I did present two other ideas that were more modern and contemporary designs to the same customer, and this is what they chose.”

For anyone starting out, one of the most inspiring aspects of “Grown Expectations” is the way it combines so many skills, including hardscaping, carpentry, boulder coring, lighting, wall building, staining, and even some coppersmithing. Jason’s advice? Don’t shy away from challenges.

“Since I was the installer and the designer, I knew my capabilities,” he noted. “Don’t be afraid to design and install. We did have to do a lot of stuff here. That wasn’t all interlocking pavement. There were water features, electrical pumps. There’s a curved pergola in it where there’s actually carpentry and woodwork. There are walls in there.”

Jennifer added, “Don’t be afraid to try the hard stuff. He knew it was going to be difficult, and that execution was going to be different and one of a kind, and he was not afraid of it. He went in full force and just knocked it out of the park.”

The Stewarts hope this recognition will open doors for new design opportunities and inspire others in the hardscaping community to explore their creativity.

“I’m hoping to gain more design work off of it,” Jason said. “We definitely wanted to show what you can do with a small space and it doesn’t look crowded at the same time… You could scoot the table and chairs out of the way, and it could be a dance floor for sure.”

Whether you’re just starting in the hardscaping field or looking to push your designs further, remember that every project is an opportunity to learn, innovate, and inspire. JPave’s “Grown Expectations” is proof that with a clear vision and a fearless approach, you can create spaces that not only stand out but also resonate with your clients and bring their dreams to life.

Making a Great Impression: Interview Tips for Hardscaping Job Seekers

Your resume has caught the eye of the recruiter and you’ve made it to the interview round!

But like any field, landing a hardscaping job means nailing the interview.

If you’re preparing for an interview in hardscaping, you want to make sure you’re not just another candidate but someone who stands out as prepared, passionate, and capable. Here are some tips from a few industry veterans to help you make a great impression.

Do Your Research

Before stepping into your interview, take time to research the company. Show that you’ve taken an interest in their work and operations. This doesn’t mean just skimming through their website; dig a little deeper. Follow the company on social media platforms, check out their recent projects, and familiarize yourself with the types of work they do.

“Knowing a little bit about the company is so important because it shows that you take initiative…It’s always a compliment for an employer to hear that someone is following the company online or on social media, but in a subtle way. Saying, ‘Hey, you know I’ve been following you guys and some of the things I love that you do that really draws me to your company is this,’” said Frank Bourque, a Landscape and Hardscape Business Consultant and the founder and host of the Landscape & Hardscape Business Success Summit.

“If someone shows up and they’ve never been on the website, they’ve never looked at what we do, and they don’t really know if we do landscaping or hardscaping or planting flowers, it’s not necessarily a turnoff, but then you’re just like anybody else that shows up at the door.”

Bourque recommends preparing some examples specific to the company you are interviewing with and being prepared to talk about how you relate to that type of work.

Be Ready with Real-World Examples

If you have prior experience, definitely bring it up in the interview. But even if you don’t have direct experience in hardscaping, you can relate your past work or activities to the demands of the industry.

“Even if you’ve never been in the industry, maybe having some examples of where you’ve brushed against the industry. I don’t care if it’s your mother that put in a paver driveway one day, right? But at least that shows me that they understand what we’re doing and what the industry is about,” said Travis Hilldore, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Pathfinder Systems.

“If you have no experience in hardscaping, make it relatable to something else. Like, ‘Hey, I’ve worked outside. I love that type of work. I know it’s tough. I know long hours outside means having to get ready for your day and to bring lunch,’” Bourque said. “They sound so basic, but these things are so important.”

Bourque said this kind of example shows him that a candidate is motivated and prepared. He also noted that sharing experience working with a team can be helpful.

“If working with a team is part of what you like to do then you’re going to be a great fit for a lot of companies just to start with,” Bourque said. “Because if you’re coachable, you have the right attitude, you seem like you’re organized, you seem like you know what you want to do, those are, I would say, at the top of the list of what employers look for in our industry.”

Showcase Your Soft Skills

The hardscaping industry is not just about skills with tools or equipment; it’s also about teamwork, communication, and reliability. You can prepare concrete examples that highlight your ability to collaborate, problem-solve, and adapt to changing conditions.

“Describe some challenges that you faced in the past, and how you overcame these. It could be having a problem and problem solving with the team and then reaching out to the owner to make sure that it’s a good solution, instead of just presenting a problem to the employer,” Bourque said.

“Employers love to hear how you’ve solved problems because business owners hear problems all day long. They would much prefer hearing, ‘Hey, here’s the issue. But here’s three examples of how we could probably solve this.’”

According to Bourque, employers appreciate candidates who understand the importance of teamwork and reliability.

“For example, when you don’t show up, it impacts the whole team. It might even change the whole day for everybody else around you. So, when you’re able to demonstrate that you have self-awareness, that you know that your behavior is going to impact others, that says a lot. That shows maturity,” Bourque said.

You can also show examples of when you’ve had to adapt to new roles or challenges quickly.

“Be able to show some examples of how over time you’ve been given more responsibility. It shows how you can show up when you’re needed for these things and be consistent at it. I think these are the soft skills that will stand out,” Bourque said.

Hilldore said he likes to ask questions that stretch a candidate’s knowledge and show him how they approach different situations.

“I like to lead with, ‘Hey, there’s no right or wrong answer on this, however, if you ran into a situation where you’re the only one in the office, because we travel quite a bit, and a customer called you up asking very specific questions about a piece of equipment. How would you handle that?’” Hilldore said.

“That just gives me a good feel for their communication style, how quickly they can pick up on the information that’s on our website, things like that. Whether they would lie or not is a big one…You get to see their thought process.”

Come Prepared and Presentable

While many jobs in the hardscaping industry may not require a suit and tie, first impressions still matter. Dress appropriately for the company culture and bring a notebook to the interview.

“To me, something that’s impressive is somebody who shows they’re fairly organized. A notebook with them to take notes, pre-prepared questions,” Hilldore said. “Showing up a little bit early. Looking somebody in the eye while talking to them.”

Pre-preparing questions is a huge plus and demonstrates that you’re serious about the opportunity. Ask about the company’s current projects, what they’re looking for in a team member, or how you can grow within the company.

“If they’re asking about the culture and they’re asking about opportunities for growth. I think that shows some motivation,” Hilldore said.

“I always joke around about that. Everybody talks about their business being a family. Well, frankly speaking, I’d rather be with my actual family on Christmas and Thanksgiving. But we are a close-knit team, and we rely on each other. So, if they’re asking questions about how they can integrate within a group, it shows somebody who is looking to fit in somewhere,” Hilldore said.

After the Interview

The top candidates know the impression they leave doesn’t end when the interview does and they follow up with their interviewer afterward.

A simple email to thank the interviewer for their time and consideration can help keep you top of mind.

“I’d say it’s 50-50 that people even email you and say, ‘Hey, thanks for the interview.’ That used to happen a lot more,” said Trevor Fearn, the VP Operations at CornerStone Wall Solutions Inc. “Now it really makes you stand out.”

Preparing for a hardscaping job interview is all about demonstrating your readiness for the job. If you follow these tips, you’ll shine as a candidate.

Still in the job application stage? Check out our tips on crafting a compelling resume.

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