ND FFA Foundation

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Mike Loepp-Landscape Management Placement Proficiency Award Winner  

Hard Work Pays Off

 Mike Loepp, 18, from the Wahpeton FFA Chapter works for Dean’s Landscaping, a local landscaping contractor located in Wahpeton. Working at Dean’s, he installs underground irrigation systems, grades yards to the proper slopes, and plants grass and other landscape plants.  “Some advantages I had was my strong work ethic and the construction technology and agriculture education classes I have taken,” said Mike.  

Mike’s main goals, when starting was to earn money for college and gain skills that would help him in his construction career. Mike also wanted to work in a team to aid his communication skills.   

When Mike started with Dean’s Landscaping, he served as an assistant on the crew. As he gained experience, he was able to perform installation of irrigation systems and plants on his own. Mike now has two or three employees who he oversees and has received a raise of $2 an hour as a result of his hard work.  

As for Mike’s plans for the future, he is planning to attend North Dakota State College of Science and major in Construction Technology and Management. At the present time he is undecided if he will take a third year option for advanced management training, transfer to a university, or enter the work force. After college he would like to work in the construction field and someday have a crew for whom he is responsible.  

The Landscape Management Placement Proficiency awards are sponsored by Bobcat Ingersoll-Rand.  

By: Melissa Mitchell

Ths page is sponsored by the ND Grain Growers Association

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Last modified: April 22, 2008