Began at Rost Inc. in 2014
Jacob Porter began at Rost Inc in 2014 and has continued to grow! Check out this interview with Jacob.
Why did you decide to go into this profession/industry?
I’ve always enjoyed being outdoors. After I started working for the landscape department at MU while in college, I grew an interest and enjoyment in plants and landscaping in general. It wasn’t long after starting there that I realized this is what I wanted to pursue.
What do you like most about working in this profession and why?
Being able to create custom landscapes for various types of properties and conditions is intriguing. It gives me the opportunity to be creative while finding solutions to potential needs or desires for an outdoor space. Seeing the solutions go from concept to reality is a bonus as our crews can construct the plans that we create.
What makes you the face of outdoor spaces?
As a designer for Rost Landscaping, I am the person in contact and working directly with the client from start to finish. This gives the client a familiar face to speak to when they have any requests or questions that need to be discussed. I am likely the first person they’ll meet when they contact us to look at their project.
What goal have you completed that you are most proud of?
I have been designing for over 10 years. During this time, I would say I am most proud of are the connections I have made with numerous clients. To become their go to person that they trust for anything related to their outdoor spaces is gratifying.
What legacy and impact do you see yourself having in the Columbia community?
I think the legacy we’d like to be known for is leaving outdoor spaces better than what they were before we arrived. There are many projects where we can take an outdoor space that is currently very unusable and turn it into something that can be used and enjoyed.
Have you always wanted to be in this profession? If not, when did you decide on this path?
Landscape design was not the desire growing up. I decided to go into landscaping and design after I started working for MU’s landscape department. I realized that this was a profession that would always be interesting and give me the chance to spend more time outdoors.
Please share a bit about your family
My wife and I are from and live in California, MO. She is a special education preschool teacher in Jeff City. We have a son and a daughter who keep us very busy with their activities. Our children love to be outside as much as I do.
