I have been practicing landscape architect for 24 years and have always understood that licensure was an important part of my professional life. I sat for the licensing test as soon as I met the requirements. That license and continued professional development are important to set myself and other landscape architects apart and to signal that we have the training and skills necessary to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of the public.

I have spent my career working in civil engineering firms since my graduation from the West Virginia University accredited landscape architecture program. My experience includes development of site and road plans, erosion control plans, master planning and community design.

My contribution to projects is no different from that of my professional engineering colleagues. We both bring specific training and knowledge to the table that is vital to public safety and trust. As we are peers in this practice, my licensure is equal to theirs. In both instances, the license prevents those without the extensive training from practicing in a field that places public safety as one of its primary goals.