This is a guest post, written by Matt, about his intern experience with us this summer.
Being chosen to participate in an internship at Yellowstone Landscape has taught me many lessons in the field of landscape management as well as provided me with skills that I will carry throughout of my lifetime. As an intern, I experienced every aspect of the company, from the Account Manager to the maintenance crew.
In the beginning, I worked with the irrigation technicians, learning how to change PGA and PEB valves on sprinkler heads as well as laying pipe for brand new irrigation lines. I then moved into the chemical and fertilization department, learning what chemicals to use on specific turf as well as plants. I collected and examined caterpillars that were infesting a group of Oak trees on a property which led us to treat with a chemical in order to eliminate the infestation. I also learned how to Arbor Jet trees and shoot chemicals directly into the vascular system of an Italian Cypress, something I never knew was possible.
The remainder of my time as been spent with the maintenance crew. Experiencing this aspect of landscape maintenance has been an essential part of the internship. I have learned how to use a 60 inch zero turn mower and was given the opportunity to mow multiple areas and fully understand how to operate it. I have also gained experience using an edger, blower and weed eater. These tools are the backbone in the lawn care industry and gaining experience with them is priceless. Being in the field tested many of my skills. I learned to prepare for the heat, work safely and work hard all which are important for anyone considering this industry to understand.
While observing my Mentor working with customers one on one, I learned the importance of communicating with a customer, understanding what they want, and turning it into actual work in the field. It showed me how hard work pays off! I would say this is the most valuable thing I have learned during my Internship. I recommend anyone considering an internship in this industry should experience as much as possible in order to gain fully what this industry has to offer.
