Robert Wade of Wade Landscape in Newport Beach was installed as the new California Landscape Contractors Association's 2011 president. A member of the CLCA since 1994 and former director of legislation, Wade has more than 30 years of industry experience and a number of industry certifications including the EPA's WaterSense Irrigation Partner.
One of Wade’s priorities as CLCA president is to actively help the industry through these tough times.
"It hasn't been an easy time for many of our members,” Wade said. "CLCA has been actively working to help the industry by keeping our job board full, growing our LinkedIn and Facebook groups, posting bids online, the creation of a new newsletter focused on industry marketing, fighting the unlicensed contractor and more. I'm proud to be part of such a great organization and profession. Our industry expertise provides a valuable service to California not only by providing customers beautiful backyard havens, but we also offer solutions to some of the big issues currently facing California, such as water management, firescaping, erosion control and more."
"CLCA is pleased to welcome Robert Wade as president of the association," said Executive Director Sharon McGuire. "Under his leadership, we will continue to work hard to look for innovative and creative ways to provide additional support to help our industry survive and thrive in today's difficult economic climate. Bob has strong opinions about how CLCA can better support our membership. He is also looking for member feedback and has set up an email address specifically to hear ideas and concerns directly from CLCA members."
Wade started Wade Landscape, which specializes in water management, large residential and commercial installation and maintenance, in 1977 shortly after graduating from Cal Poly Pomona with a bachelor's degree in ornamental horticulture. Since joining CLCA in 1994 he has served as a chapter president, director of legislation, events co-chair, served as a member on the Landscape Task Force and has been a member of the legislative committee since 1995. Over the years, his company has won several Trophy Awards and he was selected CLCA's member of the year in 2005.
