Graham Nelson
Lake In The Hills,IL
Summary
Dedicated grounds management professional with a proven track record of maintaining and enhancing the District U-46 environment. Recognized for delivering exceptional results in safety and aesthetics through effective team collaboration and leadership. Reliable and adaptable, with strong skills in landscaping and equipment maintenance. Committed to contributing to the continued improvement of the school district while embracing new challenges and opportunities for growth.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Groundskeeper
U-46 School District
03.2019 - Current
- Directed crews in executing seasonal grounds operations with a focus on efficiency and quality.
- Maintained school grounds, ensuring cleanliness and safety for students and staff.
- Maintained aesthetic consistency across multiple properties by following specific design guidelines.
- Collaborated with management to develop long-term plans for property enhancements and upgrades/reductions.
- Exhibited punctuality and reliability in completing assigned duties according to established deadlines without compromising quality standards.
Building Supervisor
Hawthorne Hill Nature Center
Elgin, IL
04.2019 - 05.2023
- Supervised daily operations and maintenance of the nature center to ensure safety and compliance.
Ceramics Instructor
The Edward Schock Centre of Elgin
Elgin, IL
06.2016 - 05.2023
- Developed and implemented engaging ceramics curriculum for diverse age groups.
Grower and Propagation Manager
Ron Clesen’s Ornamental Plants
Maple Park, IL
01.2017 - 03.2019
- Cultivated diverse ornamental plants, ensuring optimal growth conditions and health.
- Monitored pest control measures to maintain plant integrity and quality standards.
- Managed plant cultivation and growth, ensuring quality care from seed to transplant while supervising production staff.
Grounds Department
Southern Illinois University
Carbondale, IL
08.2015 - 05.2016
- Managed upkeep of campus facilities to ensure a safe and visually appealing environment.
Craft Shop – Student Worker
Southern Illinois University
Carbondale, IL
06.2014 - 08.2015
- Performed routine studio maintenance and operated kilns. Supported clay preparation and management of cash register. Assisted in supervising open studio activities and facilitated adult and children's classes alongside private lessons.
Laborer/Landscaper
Wildwood Valley Homeowners Association
Elgin, IL
01.2005 - 06.2013
- Assisted with mowing, clearing brush, trimming branches, painting signs, and constructing stone retaining walls in common areas across the subdivision. Supported maintenance of five large cul-de-sacs and lakefront areas.
Ceramic studio-student worker
Elgin Community College
Elgin, IL
01.2012 - 01.2013
- Developed and formulated clay and glazes from raw materials while overseeing kiln loading operations.
Production Staff/Closer
Ron Clesen’s Ornamental Plants
Maple Park, IL
03.2012 - 06.2012
- Responsible for shutting down greenhouses at night, adjusting heaters, fans, and also working with the production staff.
Education
Bachelor’s Degree - Fine Arts
Southern Illinois University
Carbondale, Illinois01-2016
Associate in Arts - Honors
Elgin Community College
Elgin, Illinois01-2013
Bachelor of Science -
Larkin High School
Elgin, Illinois05-2010
Skills
- Lawn and grounds maintenance
- Dedicated work ethic
- Baseball field restoration
- Problem-solving
Certification
- Illinois Pesticide Applicator License in Turf and Right-of-Way
Timeline
Building Supervisor
Hawthorne Hill Nature Center
04.2019 - 05.2023
Groundskeeper
U-46 School District
03.2019 - Current
Grower and Propagation Manager
Ron Clesen’s Ornamental Plants
01.2017 - 03.2019
Ceramics Instructor
The Edward Schock Centre of Elgin
06.2016 - 05.2023
Grounds Department
Southern Illinois University
08.2015 - 05.2016
Craft Shop – Student Worker
Southern Illinois University
06.2014 - 08.2015
Production Staff/Closer
Ron Clesen’s Ornamental Plants
03.2012 - 06.2012
Ceramic studio-student worker
Elgin Community College
01.2012 - 01.2013
Laborer/Landscaper
Wildwood Valley Homeowners Association
01.2005 - 06.2013
Associate in Arts - Honors
Elgin Community College
Bachelor’s Degree - Fine Arts
Southern Illinois University
Bachelor of Science -
Larkin High School