AGRICULTURE ALUMNUS GROWS BUSINESS IN HIS COMMUNITY

Jonathan Eloe developed an interest in horticulture while in high school, which he then pursued throughout college and into a career. Eloe now owns and operates Eloe Landscaping in Shelbyville and provides services to the area from residences to commercial properties.

“I like being able to start from scratch to plant and beautify a home,” Eloe said. “One of my favorite things to do is go back and look at projects to see how they have transformed over time.”

Eloe said he has his family, his community’s support and Lake Land College to thank for being instrumental in his success.

“Lake Land was definitely the right path for me,” Eloe said.

“[Horticulture Instructor] Dyke Barkley was key in helping me get to where I am now. I still talk to him every other week or so. At Lake Land, the instructors aren’t just there for you for two years. They’re always willing to talk and give advice even when you’re not still in school.”

Having started the Horticulture program with limited plant knowledge, Eloe said his time at Lake Land prepared him well for the challenges that would come up in the field.

“I still refer back to my notes and things,” Eloe said. “Lake Land has a great program with so many different areas in both the horticulture and the business side of things. I’d recommend Lake Land for any area or trade you’re interested in. All the classes prepare you well to help you to apply what you learn and put it into practice.”