Each year, the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) hosts the National Collegiate Landscape Competition (NCLC), one of the most exciting events in the green industry. This year, the competition took place on the campus of Michigan State University in Lansing, Michigan.

While last year's NCLC hit close to home at Colorado State University and gave us the incredible opportunity to host events in our own backyard, this year was all about continuing to connect with the new and existing professionals who make this industry great.

Connecting with the Next Generation

At Designscapes Colorado, we are passionate about investing in the future of the landscape industry and that starts with its students. NCLC brings together some of the most talented landscape and horticulture students from colleges and universities across the nation, all competing to showcase their skills and kick-start their careers. Char had a fantastic time at the career fair, meeting students from programs around the country, catching up with familiar faces, and getting to know the emerging talent who will define what this industry looks like for decades to come.

"Events like NCLC remind us just how bright the future of this industry is. Getting to connect with these students, seeing their passion, their drive, and their creativity is inspiring. The next generation of landscape professionals is ready, and we couldn't be more excited about it." — Char Chacon, Residential Team Manager

Networking with Industry Professionals

One of the best things about NCLC is the  concentration of passionate, talented professionals gathered in one place. Char Farley Chacon, Designscapes Colorado's Residential Team Manager; Brian Levins, Designscapes Colorado’s Maintenance Team Manager; Brian Breed, Designscapes Colorado’s Residential Landscape Designer; and Phil Steinhauer, Designscapes Colorado’s CEO made the trip to Lansing to represent the team. From reconnecting with familiar industry colleagues to forging new relationships with professionals from across the country, the conversations and connections made throughout the week were nothing short of energizing. 

Why We Show Up, No Matter Where It Is

We didn't need to be hosting events to feel the incredible value of being at NCLC. Whether we're here in Colorado or making the trip to Michigan, showing up matters. Walking the career fair floor, sitting across from a student who is just beginning to imagine their future, or sharing an idea with a fellow industry professional, these moments are what it's all about. 

Looking Ahead

A huge congratulations to all the student competitors at this year's NCLC. Your talent, hard work, and enthusiasm for this craft is truly inspiring. Thank you to NALP for another outstanding event and to Michigan State University for being such a wonderful host.

We can't wait to see what next year's competition brings in Cleveland, Ohio at Cuyahoga Community College.