Member Spotlight on Scott Reeder

President / CEO at Barefoot Lawn Care, Inc. has seen a variety of challenges and changes in his career spanning three decades. His story and insights demonstrate resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to excellence that has propelled both him and his company to continued success.

How long have you worked at Barefoot Lawn Care?

I started in December of 1992 (31 years).

How did you get into this field?

Honestly, I never really enjoyed school all that much. In high school, I participated in the early-release work program my junior and senior years. I worked at the Swift Creek Nursery because I thought, at that time, I had a love for plants. After beginning my studies at NC State in the Ag Institute, I double majored in Turfgrass Management and Ornamentals & Landscape Technology with a concentration in Agri-Business. I spent my summers working at the Country Club of Johnston County and was named Assistant Superintendent. That was when I realized I enjoyed the turf world a little more than plants.

What are your main responsibilities?

Through the years, my responsibilities have changed as our business has grown, but my most important responsibility is, and will continue to be, my employees. Without good employees, we have no business. We have been fortunate to hire capable managers. They oversee the daily operations of each division, and they are the main contacts for our employees. I miss being outdoors, but I find new fulfillment in the office managing the finances and growth strategies for the business and looking ahead to the future. My focus has shifted from managing individuals to managing the business itself.

What is one challenge you face?

Finding new employees that share our company’s values and align with those of our current employees.

How do you overcome it?

Finding quality employees has been the number one issue for many landscapers over the last few years. I think some companies have pulled back on preferred qualifications, but we have not. We conduct pre-employment drug testing as well as random testing throughout the year. We also conduct background checks and run MVRs on every potential new employee. Finding qualified drivers has also become a serious issue. As painful as this process is, we turn away more candidates than we hire. It’s our mission to promote safe driving and reduce the likelihood of accidents. We know that quality candidates will help us serve our customers better.

What is one thing you wish people knew about our industry?

I don’t think most people understand the financial impact of the turfgrass industry. Furthermore, I don’t think many know the environmental benefits that the industry provides, especially at a time when artificial turf seems to be gaining traction in the residential marketplace. One homeowner sees another homeowner make a change, and then they decide it’s the best thing for them without knowing the full effects of their decision. I believe our industry must do a better job educating the public, which is a major responsibility of every lawn care and landscape company alongside trade organizations.

What is something you’ve seen change in our industry over the years?

This industry has experienced explosive growth. It has become an industry that provides well-paying jobs and benefits that haven’t always existed. Compared to other high-skill service jobs like HVAC, electric, and plumbing, I firmly believe this industry has become competitive in attracting and retaining high-level service jobs that can turn into long-term careers for many.

Tell us a fun fact about you!

I enjoy the beach. My wife, friends, family, and I enjoy hanging out and listening to beach music. We spend a lot of time on Ocean Drive in North Myrtle Beach and surrounding areas. The funny thing is my wife is an incredible dancer, but I cannot shag one bit—I just enjoy listening to the music. This is my HAPPY PLACE. It’s where I go to relieve stress and put the business aside for a while.

Why do you choose to be a TCNC member?

I believe in supporting each organization within our industry. I support meetings and educational events throughout the year. We encourage our lawn care technicians to obtain their pesticide license for which we incur all related costs. This gives them some earned satisfaction and allows them to also attend educational events to further their knowledge as they earn required credits. The TCNC, NCNLA, and GIC have all been great advocates for our industry. Private businesses have benefited through the years from their continued support of this industry. As a graduate of North Carolina State University, I personally appreciate the collaborative efforts and research with the North Carolina State Turf Research Department.