Imagine a healthy tree. Its solid roots hold it firm in the ground. Its branches extend ever upward. It sways when necessary to weather storms. It provides a haven for other organisms within its leaves. It produces seeds each year. This image captures this year’s Women In The Green Industry award winners.
They stand firm in their decisions. They are forever expanding their knowledge and skillsets. They adapt to industry challenges. They welcome others into the industry, paving a path for those who come after them. They spread their knowledge to others.
For the second year in a row, Green Industry Pros broke down the award winners into three categories:
- Up-and-Comer: Honors female professionals under 35 years old who have made significant strides in the industry.
- Unsung Hero: Honors an employee who always puts her nose to the grindstone but who may not always get the recognition she deserves.
- Seasoned Pro: Honors female professionals who have been in the industry 20-plus years and who have made significant strides in promoting other women in the green industry.
The women listed below have become stewards of the green industry, standing tall to grow the industry for the better.
Let's first meet the three overall winners by category:
Champion of Women in STEM: Davey Tree Expert's Brady Holko Named Overall Up & Comer
Brady Holko, laboratory technician at Davey Tree Expert Co.
But, she’s also a scientist, educator and mentor, championing for women in science, leading groundbreaking research and serving as an industry educator and mentor.
CLICK HERE to learn more about how she aims to continue her work with plant diagnostics to raise the green industry as a whole.
Lauren Ritch, general manager at Canopy Lawn Care
Breaking Through the Canopy: Canopy Lawn Care's Lauren Ritch Named Overall Unsung Hero
Since becoming part of Canopy Lawn Care, Lauren Ritch, general manager, has been instrumental in implementing positive change with Canopy’s program, adhering to the company’s “soil-first” philosophy and even embarking on franchise location openings.
A lifelong learner, Ritch has worn various hats at Canopy, enabling her to learn new skills, hone her existing ones and gain insight into each different facet of the company’s operation.
CLICK HERE to learn more about her journey.
Carving Her Place: Pleasant Lanscapes' Kelly Slater Named Overall Seasoned Pro
Kelly Slater, CEO of Pleasant Landscapes
While Slater felt like she was in a man’s world earlier in her career, she didn’t let that stop her—instead opting to attend conferences, listen to speakers and educate herself on the industry. Today, she strives to normalize women in landscaping.
CLICK HERE to learn more about why Slater would like to see more women in management and ownership.
