Landscape Horticulture

Student Testimonials

Fahey, John

My story is a little different from most students. After working most of my adult life I tried to retire. Within two weeks my wife 'suggested' I find something to do that would be fun and that I would enjoy. That afternoon I applied for three jobs and had three to choose from. I went to work for Gertens in the shrubs and trees. That summer I met several students from DCTC who were doing their internships. Since I enjoyed the interaction with the customers and working outside it made sense to learn more about what makes plants grow; how to care for them, how to use them in the landscape and what causes them to get sick or not grow well.

I started out with a light credit load; it had been years since I had attended regular classes. Most of the students were the age of our children. As I got 'into' the program it became a lot of fun. My wife was amused by my competitive attitude about grades. By involvement in the Hort Club and volunteer activities I developed an understanding of the 'Green' industry. Our Design Problems class entered a competition for a display at the Arboretum and we were one of 15 projects selected; we build it in our garage.  The faculty encouraged joining The Minnesota Nursery Landscape Association (MNLA) and studying for the Certified Landscape Professional (CLP) test which I passed.

All this encouragement and the confidence I gained at DCTC eased my transition into a totally new industry. For the last two years I have been using the education from DCTC along with my previous business experience estimating projects and developing business systems for a Twin Cities landscape design and installation company.

John Fahey '07

 

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