2024 Bonick Landscaping Team Difference Maker

How One Exemplary Employee Exudes Our Bonick Landscaping Team Values

We would not be where we are in this industry if it weren’t for our remarkable Bonick team. From our tireless crews and dedicated garden managers to our innovative designers and irreplaceable office staff, each one plays a crucial role in our success. So, to celebrate them, every year, we highlight a member who made an indelible mark. This year, our fantastic foreman-turned-supervisor, Jose Ricardo Puga earned a spot at the top of our list. Within a few short years of hire, “Puga”, as our clients know him, learned the ropes, scaled the ranks, and catapulted his way into leadership. Learn more about how this stalwart supervisor exemplifies our values and merits recognition as this year’s Bonick Landscaping Team Difference Maker.

“Jose is a very knowledgeable team member; he thinks through problems and works with his team to create and execute solutions. He also demonstrates the markings of a true leader—when he gives direction, everyone resets and follows. He is a great communicator, and he not only ensures that his team understands what is needed for each job, but he also communicates well with his customers about what to expect and how the process is moving along.” — Glenn Bonick

What was your background before working on our Bonick Landscaping team?

I grew up in Querétaro, Mexico, and relocated to the U.S. about twenty-five years ago in search of better opportunities and more support for my family. Back when I was young and skinny, I began working in lawn maintenance for a small family business in Dallas for eighteen years. In January 2019, in search of growth opportunities, I found Bonick Landscaping.

Tell us about your transition within the company and what your position entails.

I started as a foreman for about 3 years and then I got promoted to a supervisor, floating between whichever Bonick Landscaping team needed the most help. As a supervisor, I check on the crews and teach them the Bonick standard and process from start to finish. They must learn different planting styles, how to pay attention to detail, plant where the client will see their garden most, and most importantly, how to keep the client happy.

“Jose’s dedication and hard work are truly inspiring! He consistently goes above and beyond, making a great asset to our Bonick Landscaping team.” – Pedro Mendez, VP of Construction Services

What obstacles have you faced transitioning into your supervisory role and how have you overcome them?

I’ve learned how to work well with coworkers, subcontractors, and customers, and how important it is to learn from mistakes. It’s been a bit challenging to move up the ranks more quickly than some veterans who have been here more than 7 years, but I reminded them that everyone has an equal chance for promotion.

Have you encountered any particular challenges on projects?

I study projects and determine how to approach an obstacle by asking questions, focusing on the goal, and coming up with new ideas. Sometimes a client isn’t happy with their plant selection even though they chose it, so you need to pivot to please them and not take it personally. The client comes first and at the end of the day, as long as we accomplish the task and they are happy, that is what matters.

What is your favorite part about this industry and/or your role at Bonick?

I like the final product at the end of each project—seeing the results of your hard work gives you a sense of pride and accomplishment. I love seeing a messy construction site turn into a thing of beauty.

Tell us a story about a positive client interaction.

I’ve been working on a new build in Flower Mound that is in the process of completion. There were some complexities involved with the site and building the retaining wall, but despite the challenges and changes, he has always been kind and patient. He is in love with his new retaining wall and the trees we planted. It is meaningful when we earn a new customer’s trust.

Tell us about your family.

I have a 17-year-old son, Richard James, and a 7-year-old girl, Isabella Rose. My partner Julie and I also have 2 small dogs, Mila and Jack. My parents, my brother and his family, 2 sisters, and 5 nephews and 2 nieces all still live in Querétaro, Mexico.

What are your hobbies outside of work?

I enjoy spending time with the family and cooking some fajitas. I also like fixing whatever is broken in the house and working on my cars.

What do you enjoy most about working on the Bonick Landscaping Team?

Every project is a challenge and you learn something from it.

Join Our Bonick Landscaping Team

Everyone from principals to designers to project managers and installers affects the culture and projects at Bonick Landscaping. We all contribute to making each other better at what we do. We live by the idea that if you do just 1% better today than you did yesterday, you will achieve great things. As a team, we thrive on elegant problem solving and we aspire to seamless execution from design through installation and maintenance. If you are interested in joining the Bonick Landscaping team, check out our open positions.

 

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