Member Shoutout: Nathan Aarons

Name: Nathan Aarons

Current Employer & Position: Lose Design - Landscape Architect

Total Years’ Experience: 8

1)     When did you realize you wanted to become a Landscape Architect? What was your path to get here?

I worked on a golf course during my high school years and really liked the idea of designing golf courses, but I didn't know how to get there. I was 'undecided' during orientation before my freshman year (2008) at UGA and I went through the process of looking through the list of majors. The description for landscape architecture caught my attention and I decided it couldn't hurt to go and hear what they had to say about the program. An hour later, I walked out of Caldwell Hall with a new major and a class schedule for my new five year program.....It wasn't until a few months into classes that it was mentioned to me that new golf courses weren't really being designed anymore.....

2)     What has been the most rewarding part of being a Landscape Architect to you?

I think the most rewarding part of being a Landscape Architect is the opportunity to impact people in need. Of course you feel good when a new trail is built or a downtown gets a makeover, but there is nothing better than designing a new park in low income community or a simple sidewalk that provides connectivity to simple services that most of us with vehicles take for granted.

Arthur Langford Jr. Skate Park in Atalnta.

3)     What projects are you working on now? And/or what is your favorite project that you have worked on?

 My favorite project has to be Arthur Langford Jr. Park in Atlanta. The park was a beacon for the community that had fallen on rough times. The existing pools had been filled in and all that was left was the community center. Stantec (My company at the time) worked with the Atlanta Beltline to create a new space for community activity. We implemented a skate park, ADA accessible workout stations, and green infrastructure to deal with the stormwater.

Atlanta’s first two-way cycle track.

4)     What advice would you give to emerging professionals?

 My biggest piece of advice is to learn as much as you can about the 'business' side of the profession. School taught my a lot about designing and detailing, but I was not prepared for the amount of work and time that goes into business development and proposals. Brush up on your writing skills and be begin to feel comfortable giving presentations to people.

5)     What would you like to do more of, if you could?

 Design golf courses.....but seriously, I love sports and would love to have an opportunity to design some sport facilities. That would be a great intersection of my work and my leisure life.

 6)     Is there anything else you would like to share with GAASLA members?

 GET INVOLVED!! The greatest choice I have made so far in my career is joining the executive committee of GA|ASLA. It allowed me to meet a lot of people who have continued to impact my career. I was recently laid off and a few texts or emails to my friends and colleagues from the committee opened a lot of doors that led me to my new job! It also gives you the opportunity to drive the chapter in a meaningful direction.