2020 Industry Award Winners Each year, the North Carolina Nursery & Landscape Association (NCNLA) recognizes the contributions of outstanding individuals and businesses in North Carolina’s green industry. The winners of the 2020 NCNLA Industry Awards were announced during the annual meeting held online on Jan. 21, 2021.
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NCNLA Awards Committee Thank you to the NCNLA Awards Committee for taking the time to review award nominations and select the winners. Chad Gragg (Chair) Phil Campbell Kirk Davis Tony Evans Jeremy Shaver Nick Waddell
24 NURSERY & LANDSCAPE NOTES || WINTER 2021
Jerry Ragland Young Landscape Professional Award Established in 1999, the Jerry Ragland Young Landscape Professional Award recognizes an outstanding young person in the landscape business. ★ Matt Bland has worked for his family’s business, Bland Landscaping, since high school, and is now the company’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Chief Operating Officer (COO). Why he was nominated Matt is an industry visionary and leader whose contributions have made an impact on the past, present and future of the landscaping industry in North Carolina. His recapitalization of Bland Landscaping is the largest business deal ever made in the state’s landscaping industry. He always leads by example at work, at home and in the community, and he has elevated the career potential for management professionals in this industry throughout North Carolina and beyond. As CFO/COO of a family-run business that has grown to more than 500 employees, he has helped redefine the green industry in our state. What has been the most rewarding part of your career so far? I enjoy being part of a leadership team that is driving a growing company. The opportunity to build a company that provides great service to customers, as well as opportunities for our employees to grow as both professionals and individuals, is very rewarding. As our industry matures, it’s an honor to be part of continually building our industry’s professional image, which our industry founders understood to be important. What advice would you give to someone interested in the industry? Act like a sponge and soak it all up. The wealth of knowledge in our industry held by the operators of existing businesses is enormous. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, introduce yourself at events, or pick up the phone and call others to harness that knowledge.
