Pictured left to right: Steve Faber, McKenna Rowles, John Harich, Michael Moody, Matt Stanislav, Taylor Ruck, Brittany Lockwood, Courtney Pohlit, Andy Rosso.
A delegation from Ruppert Landscape recently traveled to Michigan State University to take part in the 50th annual National Collegiate Landscape Competition (NCLC). Organized by the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP), this annual event brings together hundreds of students studying landscape and horticulture, along with leading companies, manufacturers, and suppliers, for three days filled with competitions, networking, recruiting, and educational opportunities. Ruppert is proud to support NCLC each year and contribute in a variety of ways—from sponsoring events and participating in the career fair to hosting the faculty luncheon and organizing the planting competition.
Ruppert was pleased to once again sponsor the Faculty Forum, held prior to the opening ceremonies. The luncheon offers a more personal setting to connect with the professors and advisors who play a key role in developing the next generation of industry professionals. Branch Manager Michael Moody shared, “The faculty luncheon provided a personalized setting for us to connect with those who mentor and guide the future leaders of our industry. These relationships help us better understand how we can support and nurture the growth of young talent entering the field.”
Michael was honored to speak at the Faculty Luncheon and also deliver opening remarks at the inaugural Career Development Networking Breakfast. Designed as a high-impact, low-pressure experience, the event created an opportunity for students to connect with industry professionals who once stood in their shoes and have since built successful careers in landscaping. Rather than a traditional recruiting setting, the breakfast focused on authentic conversation—bringing students and professionals together for relaxed, guided discussions about the realities of the industry, the skills that matter most, and how to navigate a meaningful and successful career path.
Another major highlight each year is the NCLC career fair—the largest recruiting event in the green industry. This year’s event brought together over 800 students representing more than 56 universities nationwide. It creates a valuable opportunity to reconnect with industry peers, build new relationships, and allow Ruppert’s leadership team to engage with and identify emerging talent.
“This platform allows top-tier horticulture students to access meaningful career-building prospects, and Ruppert’s continued involvement underscores our commitment to cultivating future industry leaders,” said Talent Acquisition Representative Brittany Lockwood.
The hands-on competitions are a defining part of NCLC, giving students the chance to demonstrate their skills in real-world scenarios. Ruppert was proud to again sponsor the Landscape Plant Installation competition, a two-hour event in which three-person teams install a range of landscape materials—such as sod, soil amendments, mulch, edging, tree staking, and plants. Teams receive the layout plans 30 minutes before the competition begins, outlining the placement of materials with a 10 x 10 ft plot.
Region VP John Harich emphasized the importance of the competition, noting, “The Plant Installation competition serves as the grand finale of NCLC, and this year we had 150 students from 50 schools participate. It’s an incredible opportunity for these students to showcase their talents and truly shine.”
“I had the opportunity to compete in NCLC as a student, so coming back now as a landscape professional makes the experience especially meaningful,” said Irrigation Manager McKenna Rowles. “You gain a whole new appreciation for the level of effort and dedication these students put into just a few short days. It’s incredibly rewarding to watch them apply their skills, push themselves, and take pride in their work. Seeing that kind of commitment from the next generation of our industry is something I’m really proud to be a part of.”
At the conclusion of the competition, the NALP Foundation presented its annual scholarships, including the Ruppert Landscape Company Scholarship. This award recognizes a deserving student pursuing a future in the landscape industry.
“This year, we are proud to award the scholarship to Chase Riley from Auburn University,” said Region Manager Steve Faber. “Chase is a bright and talented student, and we’re excited to support his journey and see where his career in the green industry takes him.”
We would like to extend a special thanks to Michigan State University for hosting this exceptional event and congratulate the Cuyahoga Community College team for taking home the gold in this year’s competition.
HR Director Courtney Pohlit summed up the experience, saying, “NCLC is an unparalleled experience that we look forward to each year. It’s more than just an opportunity to engage with students from top-tier programs across the country; it’s a platform for industry professionals and vendors to come together, fostering enthusiasm and progress in our field while nurturing future leaders. We’re excited to see the energy and talent that students will bring to Cuyahoga Community College next year!”
Ruppert is honored to be part of this impactful event and remains committed to supporting the growth and success of future industry professionals. We look forward to seeing everyone at NCLC 2027!