We recently stepped out of the field and into the classroom for a change of scenery! Owner James Ulmer was invited to guest speak to a Virginia Tech Horticulture class focused on estimating, and the conversation was exactly what we hope for when we get to connect with students: practical, curious, and grounded in what happens on real projects.
Because estimating is where planning meets reality, James shared real-world examples of how we think through scope, labor, materials, timelines, and the details that can make or break a job. The goal was simple: help students see what estimating looks like beyond a worksheet, and how those skills translate directly into stronger projects, smoother operations, and better outcomes for clients.
What stood out most was the student engagement. The questions were thoughtful and specific, ranging from day-to-day decision-making to bigger career considerations. James enjoyed sharing:
- Industry knowledge and hands-on experience from landscaping and construction work
- Different career paths in the green industry, including how people grow from entry-level roles into leadership
- The mindset behind building a successful team and delivering consistent quality
James also gave students a look at what we are working toward at Back to Nature, including future plans like business relocation and a new development project here in Blacksburg. It was a great opportunity to talk about how growth shapes the way we estimate, plan, and invest in the systems that support high-quality work.
At Back to Nature, we are always excited to help connect the dots between what students are learning now and what they will be asked to do in the real world. We are proud to stay involved with Virginia Tech, support the Horticulture program, and invest in the next generation of industry leaders.
Thanks again to Virginia Tech for the invitation. We are already looking forward to the next opportunity to get involved.
