Owners and Managers Fall Event
We Mean Business: How We’re Improving Production, Creating Efficiencies, and Saving Money in our Landscape Businesses
Join the brand-new Owners and Managers Committee for their inaugural panel and networking event. These events are for owners and senior leaders to promote professional development, share industry experiences, network, and advance best practices with one another.
This event is limited to owners and senior leaders and managers.
Note: Attendees must serve in an owner, owner-operator, or senior manager role that directly oversees people, departments, and/or budgets. Experience with project management, strategic planning, goal setting, client management, and employee recruitment and retention is preferred. Senior leaders/managers do not need to have an equity stake to attend.
October 16, 2025
Westwood Tavern
1385 N Meacham Rd
Schaumburg, IL 60173
3:00pm-6:00pm
Ticket includes: the event, heavy appetizers, and two complimentary drinks.
Schedule:
3:00–3:30pm: Casual interaction, check-in
3:30–4:15pm: Structured networking/roundtables – 45 minutes of networking (with one rotation). The six table topics and moderators will be:
- Production and creating efficiencies in my business – (Tyler Doering, Anthony Smith)
- Sales, business growth, and expansion (Andy Migacz, Nick Trauth)
- Business sense, pricing, and profitability (Lindsey Ishmiel, Alex Mayfield)
- Technology and systems (can include business management systems, EOS, etc.) (Tom Hoerr, Patrick Reuteman)
- Management systems and the macrostructure of my organization (Joe Haubert, Scott McAdam)
- Labor management, culture, and onboarding (Nick Surges, Tillie Bruss)
4:15–5:15pm: Formal panel (40 min + 20 min Q&A)
5:15–6:00pm: Drinks and socializing
Panelists:
Andy Migacz
Chief Executive Officer
A.M. Woodland Outdoor Design
Mundelein and Long Grove, IL
Andy Migacz is the visionary founder and CEO of A.M. Woodland Outdoor Design, a leading landscape design and construction company based in Mundelein. Andy launched the company, originally A.M. Landscape and Design LLC, in 2009 after earning his degree in Geology from the University of Illinois. Upon returning to his hometown, he started with lawn mowing and various odd jobs to help pay off his student loans. With a clear ambition to grow, Andy soon propelled the business to new heights, culminating in the acquisition of Woodland Landscape Contractors. This strategic move not only expanded the company’s capabilities but also laid the foundation for what is now known as A.M. Woodland Contracting Group—a firm dedicated to turning dream projects into reality. Today, Andy leads a talented and driven team, delivering unparalleled outdoor design and construction services.
Tom Hoerr
President/CEO
Green View Landscaping Co.
Dunlap, IL
Tom Hoerr brings 35 years of expertise to the green industry as president and CEO of Green View, a landscaping and grounds maintenance company, that serves four locations across central Illinois. When he’s not overseeing beautiful outdoor spaces, you’ll find him exploring nature on hiking trails.
Tyler Doering
President
Doering Landscape
Lake Barrington, IL
Tyler Doering is the President of Doering Landscape Company, a family-owned design, build, and maintenance firm based in Lake Barrington, Illinois. As part of the second generation of leadership, he applies his expertise in finance, operations, and technology to drive growth and optimize business performance.
Moderated by:
Nick Surges
Owner
Night Light, Inc.
Lombard, IL
In 2001, Nick began his journey at Night Light digging trenches, putting himself through college while steadily advancing into leadership within the service department. Over the years, Nick has become the cornerstone of Night Light’s operations—motivating teams, shaping designs, and driving innovation across all departments. In partnership with Billy Oliver, Nick purchased the company in 2022 and now serves as Vice President and co-owner. Nearly three years into ownership, he continues to guide Night Light’s growth, building on its legacy while expanding services, strengthening partnerships, and inspiring a culture of excellence.
Interested in joining the Owners and Managers program committee?
Visit: https://landscapeillinois.org/committee_involvement/
Organizer: Scott Grams
Click here to contact [email protected] for further information about this event.