Weller Brothers Names 2025 “Win the Day” Award Recipients

Weller Brothers Names 2025 “Win the Day” Award Recipients

Congratulations to Lead Maintenance Foreman Cody Wood and Landscape Operations Manager Tyler Nelson, the 2025 recipients of our annual employee-nominated “Win the Day” Award!

The “Win the Day” award is a great achievement for a Weller Brothers employee and is awarded to an individual who exemplifies our Roots daily:

Quality
Safety
Communication
“Win the Day”

The Weller Brothers leadership team selected Cody and Tyler as the 2025 award recipients out of seven peer-nominated team members.

Read on and watch the videos below to learn more about why Cody and Tyler were selected for the 2025 “Win the Day” Award.

Congratulations!

Cody Wood – Win the Day Award Recipient for 2025

“I nominated Cody because he is the type of employee that embodies what Weller Brothers is about. He follows the Roots daily, and he goes above and beyond to make sure that the quality of work he puts out – while also managing teammates – is flawless.”

– Kyle Warwick, Maintenance Training Manager

“In my mind, everything that was said in these nominations is spot-on for him. I am so excited to see the great things that he is going to do for this company.”

– Jill Holt, Weller Brothers CFO

“I’ve gotten to know Cody because he takes the time to actually stop and talk to me when I’m outside. I’ve had great conversations with him, and to me, that’s everything.”

– Emily Thomas, client

“He’s quiet, but he’s always willing to help. When he says he’s going to do something, it always gets done.”

– Ian Libby, Weller Brothers General Manager

Tyler Nelson – Win the Day Award Recipient for 2025

“I nominated Tyler because he is a great resource. I owe him a huge thanks for the confidence that I have gained in estimating and selling landscape projects because everything I’ve learned has been from him.”
– Allie Rea, Maintenance Account Manager

“Tyler has been a key asset to Weller Brothers, from clients to coworkers to our [Deffenbaugh] employees. We think of you as an extension of our team.”
– Jesse Deffenbaugh, Deffenbaugh Homes

“I just really enjoyed working with Tyler. His communication was fantastic. I would come out and visit with Tyler in the morning and in the afternoon, and every single time, he would stop whatever he was doing to give me full attention, and be fully present. That struck me as a great quality.”
– Mike May, Weller Brothers client

Learn More About Working At Weller Brothers

We have the best team in the Midwest; we believe that you can be somebody here. These award winners are just two examples of that.

Learn more about joining the Weller Brothers team and growing your career with us.

Maintenance Account Manager (Rochester)

Questions?

(605) 681-9962

recruiting@wellerbrothers.com

Details about this Career

The primary responsibility of the Account Manager is to sell maintenance services and enhancements to existing clients while ensuring their retention with Weller Brothers by exceeding their expectations.This position will sell and maintain contracts with clients that improve the functional and/or aesthetic value of the property. Many of the services that are sold to clients include, but are not limited to, mowing, lawn care programs, horticultural services, and snow removal. At Weller Brothers, team members are expected to provide excellent client service and build trust by assisting clients promptly and courteously, answer questions, and provide information as needed. An account manager will ensure that all jobs are completed in a safe, timely and efficient manner.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty and competency satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required to perform this job.

Retain and sell maintenance contracts. Upsell plant and tree health care (if applicable to location), landscape enhancements, and/or snow removal services.
Make certain that property meets or exceeds the client’s expectation and the company’s expectation in terms of appearance and beauty.
Develop strong positive relationships with clients based upon clear, frequent, effective, professional, and timely communication, mutual trust and ability to meet or exceed their expectations.
Execute site audits to provide enhancement and/or maintenance opportunities for the client and to provide feedback to the production teams.
Prepare and present proposals in a timely and professional manner, according to company standards. Track all proposals in progress and follow-up to closure.
Participate in various events, organizations, and industry associations for the purpose of networking and building relationships within the community.
Develop community ties to enhance the brand of Weller Brothers.
Monitor production (time/expenses) with the Division Manager and production team, and provide avenues to improve the bottom line.
Identify job site priorities and/or coordinate jobsite schedules.
Provide excellent organizational management, leadership, and communication between client and production team.
Promote high standards of for client service, safety culture and a positive team environment
Provide assistance in managing team members as needed including performance management, addressing complaints, and planning, assigning or directing workload.
Perform other duties as assigned throughout each season.. (Ex: snow removal)

Report time and productivity daily using LMN and CRM software.
Keep and submit all receipts for material and fuel purchased.
Put in the hours necessary to make sure the job is getting done on time including weekend and holidays if necessary.
Maintain equipment. Responsible for getting all equipment to repair shops in a timely manner keeping in mind productivity.

Make decisions that are in the best interest of the company.
Other duties needed to help drive and fulfill the Weller Brothers Mission.

Required Skills and Abilities

Strong ability to work independently with little direction
Work and communicate professionally with clients and team members.
Ability to prioritize and multitask
Ability to coordinate multiple tasks.
Utilize LMN, GIS, and other relevant applications for measuring data and estimating.
Proficient in Microsoft Office and Google applications.
Highly organized and detail-oriented
Excellent time management skills
Collaborative, positive attitude with eagerness to learn and assist where needed

Education and Experience

Minimum of one-year experience in industry or related field.
Must be 18 years or older
High school diploma/GED
Valid driver’s license and a clean driving record is required.

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by a team member to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Team members must be able to perform the following tasks during a typical 8+ hour day.

HEAVY WORK: Lifting up to 100 pounds; frequent lifting or carrying objects weighing up to 80 pounds.

Position Type and Expected Hours of Work

This is a full-time non-exempt position. Specific schedules will be determined based on weather and general needs of the business.

Compensation and Benefits

Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Paid Time Off
401K with Company Match Up to 4%
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Cell Phone Reimbursement
Company Vehicle
Year Round Employment

Disclaimer: The specific statements shown in each section of this job description are not intended to be all-inclusive. They represent typical elements and criteria considered necessary to perform the job successfully. The company recognized that an individual with a disability may require an accommodation to enable him/her to successfully perform a job function. Consideration will be given to reasonable accommodations. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an “at will” relationship.

The Weller Brothers Way

Our Mission and Roots guide us in our decision and actions every day. They are not just written words; they are our culture.

Why Work Here?

You can work anywhere. So why work at Weller Brothers?

You can be somebody here, and we believe that we are the best employer in the Midwest.

Rochester

Short Game Goals and Cozy Nights

aerial view of backyard landscaping with a patio, fire pit, and putting green

Short Game Goals and Cozy Nights

Design by

Chad Kasten

Every backyard tells a story, and for this recent project, that story began with potential hidden beneath outdated elements.

When our clients came to Weller Brothers, their existing outdoor space consisted of a weathered paver patio, a tired seat wall, and minimal landscaping. Their vision? A modernized, functional retreat that included a fire pit, better screening for privacy, and lush landscaping to soften the space. They also dreamed of a putting green and a practical way to store firewood.

We couldn’t wait to bring their vision to life.

From Concept to Creation

Great landscape design is about more than just aesthetics — it’s about functionality, balance, and bringing our clients’ dreams to reality. For this project, we focused on blending modern design with purposeful features to meet every need.

Creating Privacy

We began by tackling privacy. The clients wanted more screening from their neighbors, so we designed a custom wood storage structure that doubles as a visual barrier. By placing it strategically near the fire pit, we created a functional and visually pleasing element that seamlessly integrates into the space.

Designing the Patio

For the patio, we selected sleek Techo-Bloc slab pavers to achieve the modern look our clients wanted. Their clean lines and contemporary style complemented the home’s existing stone veneer and brick exterior, creating a cohesive, polished feel.

Addressing the Slope

One of the bigger challenges— and opportunities — was the sloped lawn beyond the patio. To maximize usable space, we designed a block retaining wall to flatten the yard, transforming it into the perfect area for yard games.

The Final Touches

For an added touch of personality, we included an artificial turf putting green, complete with a connecting walkway from the patio. Large boulders around the green provide seating for spectators or a spot to relax after practicing that perfect putt.

Finally, we updated the landscaping with a mix of perennials, shrubs, small trees, and upright evergreens. This combination softens the hardscape and adds year-round color and interest, making the backyard inviting in every season.

A Backyard Designed for Living

While the entire design came together beautifully, the putting green quickly became a favorite feature. As a golfer himself, landscape designer Chad says it was rewarding to create a space where the family can practice their short game while enjoying their new backyard retreat.

Our clients were thrilled with the results. They now have a backyard that truly works for their lifestyle — a cozy fire pit for relaxing evenings, a modern patio for entertaining, and a multi-functional lawn perfect for both play and practice. They shared how much they love having an outdoor space where they can host friends, make memories with their family, and unwind after a busy day.

At Weller Brothers, we take pride in turning visions into realities while providing an experience that’s as enjoyable as the finished product. If you’re ready to reimagine your outdoor space, we’ll help you bring your dream landscape to life.

Designed

the Weller Brothers Way.

View More Tours

A Low-Maintenance and Accessible Outdoor Retreat

From “Very Plain Slab” to “Above and Beyond”

A Neglected Space Reimagined

Modern Elegance With a Prehistoric Flair

Historic Charm Meets New Outdoor Kitchen

“Jump In” To This Backyard Party

From “Very Plain Slab” to “Above and Beyond”

Byron, MN, homeowners enjoy their backyard patio

From “Very Plain Slab” to “Above and Beyond”

Design by

Michael Blazing

When landscape designer Michael Blazing first met Missy and George at their new home, their outdoor space was nothing but an 8′ x 10′ concrete pad.

“It was definitely an afterthought to their beautiful home,” Michael says.

But our clients wanted more for their home. They had a vision of a functional and attractive patio that complimented the size of their home and utilized the space as fully as possible.

“They knew the style they had in mind,” Michael says, “and felt that Weller Brothers was most likely to create that vision. So we got to work!”

The Design Process

Typically, our landscape designers create a design and work with our clients through revisions as needed. But not this time! Missy and George had no revisions to Michael’s initial design, which allowed our team to break ground quickly.

This backyard patio design includes

“My favorite thing?” asks George. “That’s an easy one – the grill. It opens up a lot of opportunities for us to entertain.”

While George is firing up the grill, you’ll find Missy admiring the view.

“I love the block and the materials,” she says, “and how the clean lines go so well with our home. I love it visually from out here and from inside the home.”

Michael adds that they also had some fun with the paver design to provide some interest in the firepit space.

“Overall, the design was kept pretty simple and clean, incorporating matching colors,” Michael says. “I also suggested landscape lighting for this project, which helps bring life to the space in the evening.”

The Result

“It’s just something that’s invaluable,” Missy says. “We’ll enjoy it for years; it’s good for resale. It was above and beyond what we could have asked for.”

George and Missy specifically noted the quality communication they received from the Weller Brothers team.

“They answered any questions we had throughout the process. They completed it right on schedule and kept us informed throughout the entire project.”

Michael also enjoyed designing this outdoor living space, particularly matching their home’s style with the vision for functionality. He says that his favorite part is the gas fire feature.

“It’s a pretty unique design specific to this project,” Michael says. “Missy and George weren’t sure about that feature at first, but they have expressed how much they have used it due to the ease of use.”

What Are You Dreaming Of?

Would you like a more functional and attractive backyard?

Whether you want to grill for the family, tend to a raised garden, or share laughs around the fire pit, we can help – just like we did for George and Missy.

Schedule your landscape design consultation today in Sioux Falls, Rochester, or Des Moines.

Designed

the Weller Brothers Way.

View More Tours

A Low-Maintenance and Accessible Outdoor Retreat

Short Game Goals and Cozy Nights

A Neglected Space Reimagined

Modern Elegance With a Prehistoric Flair

Historic Charm Meets New Outdoor Kitchen

“Jump In” To This Backyard Party

Des Moines Rochester Sioux Falls

Rochester Landscaping Companies Plan LEM Day of Service

Rochester, MN landscaping companies together at the Law Enforcement Memorial

Rochester Landscaping Companies Plan LEM Day of Service

What do you get when multiple landscaping companies in one community work together for a day of service?

. . . a spiffed-up Law Enforcement Memorial in Rochester, MN!

The Weller Brothers team in Rochester participated in the second annual “LEM Day of Service” on Saturday, October 19.

We planned this event with two other Rochester landscaping companies – Sargents and Decook Landscaping – and enjoyed coffee and breakfast from Pinnacle Catering.

At Weller Brothers, our team enjoys taking time for community involvement, and this is one of our favorite events.

Three Teams Become One for Rochester

“We had a great turnout from Weller Brothers, Sargents, and Decook Landscaping,” says Weller Brothers Landscape Operations Manager Wes Busch.

We spent the day installing sod, planting a variety of shrubs and flowers, and laying fresh mulch to create a welcoming space for visitors.

The memorial stands as a reminder of those who sacrificed their lives to help keep our community safe. It’s a peaceful area for reflection and remembrance, and we’re honored to help enhance its beauty.

“It was amazing to see our companies willing to come together for a great cause,” Wes says. “With all of the volunteers, the work was quick and efficient. It was also great to see how much appreciation and emotion was shown for families and law enforcement.”

We’re grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such an important cause, but it’s especially fun to work with people who we might otherwise be tempted to view professionally as “competitors.”

“Working and conversing with the other companies opens your eyes to the fact that they are all good people willing to do good things for the community,” Wes says.

Enjoy a video recap (courtesy of Sargent’s) and photos from our team below.

Rochester

2025 Win the Day Award Nominees Announced

2025 Win the Day Nominees – Weller Brothers

2025 Win the Day Award Nominees Announced

Congratulations to Seven Win the Day Award Nominees

We are excited to announce the 2025 Weller Brothers Win the Day Award nominees!

This award is the Weller Brothers version of an “Employee of the Year” award and was first introduced in 2024.

The Win the Day award is a great achievement for a Weller Brothers team member and is awarded to an individual who exemplifies our Roots daily:

Quality
Safety
Communication
“Win the Day”

For the 2025 award, seven outstanding team members were nominated by their peers.

The Weller Brothers executive leadership team will select and announce two winners in early 2025 at our team holiday party.

Congratulations!

Meet the Nominees

Each individual was nominated by a Weller Brothers teammate. Meet them below, along with thoughts from CEO Cole Weller.

Landscape Yard Manager

Travis Jensen

“Watching you work tirelessly to improve our landscape operations – often creating more work for yourself, knowing that your work makes others’ jobs easier – is a demonstration of who we are at Weller Brothers. We couldn’t do it without you!”

Account Manager

Allie Rea

“You really are an ass-kicker. Your attention to detail is second-to-none, and your passion for taking care of your clients is the Gold Standard for our whole account management team.”

Arborist

Phil Nystrom

“You are a master of your craft. Thank you for joining the Weller Brothers team. You have been an integral part of building our tree removal team.”

Utility Specialist

Garner Aasen

“You lead by example and your willingness to step up and do whatever it takes – inside or outside of your job description – is the Weller Brothers Way.”

Landscape Foreman

Nolan Meier

“Watching you grow in your role and dial in your landscape quality has been awesome to watch. You are going to continue to do great things!”

Lawn Maintenance Foreman

Cody Wood

“I’ve said it before and I will say it again. You’re just a good dude. Leading by example, taking challenges in stride, stepping up when asked, and often without being asked. You’re a great asset to our team and an example to those around you.”

Landscape Operations Manager

Tyler Nelson

“You are a great leader! You pour yourself into those on your team for the betterment of them, the landscape division, and the whole organization, and it is awesome to watch.”

Stay tuned to find out who wins! We’ll announce the two winners in January 2025.

Sioux Falls

Jill Holt Wins EMBEs 2024 Business Achievement Award

Jill Holt wins the 2024 EMBEs Business Achievement Award

Jill Holt Wins EMBEs 2024 Business Achievement Award

Chief Operating Officer

Jill Holt

About the EMBE Awards

We are proud to announce that Weller Brothers Chief Operating Officer, Jill Holt, has been awarded the Business Achievement Award at the 2024 EMBEs Tribute to Women in Sioux Falls.

For more than 50 years, the annual EMBEs has honored individuals who exemplify EmBe’s mission and have made outstanding contributions to the Sioux Falls community. This is such an inspiring event that celebrates the leadership and success of women in Sioux Falls.

This impressive recognition highlights Jill’s exceptional leadership, innovation, and success throughout her entire career and during her time at Weller Brothers.

Celebrating Jill's Contributions to Weller Brothers

Jill began at Weller Brothers as Controller and then became CFO. Her primary focus was in finance, but her fingerprints are on almost all workflow processes, from admin to operations. The infrastructure she built as CFO provided Weller Brothers data to make better decisions and ultimately grow revenue nearly 10x since she started in 2017.

Beyond her financial expertise, Jill is a true champion of company culture. She fosters a supportive and inclusive environment, encouraging open communication and collaboration among team members. Her genuine care for the well-being of her colleagues is evident in her willingness to go the extra mile, whether it’s offering advice or simply lending an ear.

Jill’s commitment to empowering women in a male-dominated industry is equally inspiring. She has actively worked to create opportunities for female leaders within Weller Brothers, establishing the “Women of Weller” group to foster connections, support, and professional development. Her efforts have contributed to a significant increase in the number of women in leadership roles at the company.

Jill’s achievements are a testament to her exceptional leadership, innovation, and dedication. We are honored to have her on our team and congratulate her on this well-deserved recognition.

Sioux Falls

Landscape Enhancement: Low-Maintenance Shrub Restoration

Landscape Enhancement: Low-Maintenance Shrub Restoration

Enhancement by

Ben Wolter

We all know how easily our plants and shrubs can become overgrown.

In this case, our clients hoped to clean up the landscape beds around their home, with the secondary goal of uncovering an attractive outcropping boulder that was obscured by overgrown boxwoods. Their third priority was to retain and reshape a pom pom juniper that had grown out of control.

pom pom juniper in need of pruning and shaping

a perfectly shaped pom pom juniper in minnesota

A Strategic Approach

Rochester, MN, account manager Ben Wolter assessed the situation and explained the limitations of pruning the boxwoods. Due to the size and age of the existing shrubs, they would require regular pruning to keep the boulder exposed.

Since the homeowners hoped for a lower-maintenance solution, Ben recommended removing the large boxwoods and replacing them with smaller ones.

He also assured our client that our team could restore the pom pom juniper to its original shape.

A Quick Turnaround and A Happy Homeowner

Weller Brothers completed this landscape enhancement project quickly — about one week between the initial meeting and project completion.

Typically, a crew of several Weller Brothers teammates work together on a landscape enhancement. Due to the smaller scale of this project, Ben took it on himself. He enjoyed the chance to work closely with our client with a personalized approach.

While this was a “smaller” project, the result is significant!Let us know how Weller Brothers can help your landscaping in Des Moines, Sioux Falls, and Rochester.

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Landscape Enhancement: Old Landscaping Gets a New Lease On Life

Landscape Enhancement: Employee Patio at Sioux Falls Costco

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Landscape Enhancement: From Dead Grass to Bright Corner Bed

Rochester, MN, Backyard Bliss with KTTC

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Enhancement Sioux Falls

Landscape Enhancement: Old Landscaping Gets a New Lease On Life

front of a midwest home with updated landscaping

Landscape Enhancement: Old Landscaping Gets a New Lease On Life

Enhancement by

Ryan Benda

When a longtime homeowner contacted Weller Brothers account manager Ryan Benda in the fall of 2022, he knew he had a fun challenge ahead of him.

The home’s landscape was overgrown with mature plants, and the homeowner was struggling to keep up with the maintenance.

Before and After

front of a home with outdated general landscaping

home with a rock bed and outdated landscaping

a Sioux Falls home with refreshed rock beds, edging, and plants

A Fresh Start

Our team’s first step was to clear the overgrown vegetation and create a clean slate. With the landscape beds cleared, Ryan worked with the homeowner to understand her vision for the space. Together, they designed a colorful, yet low-maintenance landscape that would complement the existing hardscape features like the retaining wall, steps, and walkways.

“I built the plan around existing features, accentuating them with specific plants and designs,” Ryan says. “We also included a drip-line irrigation system for easy watering.”

Blending Native and Urban

Like plant variety? Ryan’s got you covered with this design.

To achieve a low-maintenance and visually appealing landscape, he incorporated a mix of native grasses like Prairie Dropseed, Little Bluestem, Festuca, and Karl Foerster, along with hardy evergreen plants such as Mugo Pine, Arborvitae shrubs, and upright Junipers. For pops of color, he added Barberry’s and Coneflowers.

“With the perfect existing spot for a raised mulch bed, I added more native perennials for season-long blooming color by using Bee Balm, Stachys, Sedum, Yarrow, Gaillardia, and a brilliant Northern clump Redbud”, Ryan adds.

To accent the main walkway, we planted Amur Flame Maple clump trees that add a vibrant red hue in the fall.

A Client's Delight

The homeowner was thrilled with the transformation, and we’re so glad!

When Ryan showed her the before-and-after pictures, she couldn’t believe the difference. Our team transformed the overgrown, neglected landscape into a vibrant, inviting outdoor space that was easy to maintain.

How can we bring your home’s landscaping back to life? We’re here to help in Des Moines, Sioux Falls, and Rochester.

View More Enhancements

Landscape Enhancement: Low-Maintenance Shrub Restoration

Landscape Enhancement: Employee Patio at Sioux Falls Costco

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Landscape Enhancement: From Dead Grass to Bright Corner Bed

Rochester, MN, Backyard Bliss with KTTC

Do You Know Your Landscaping Budget?

Enhancement Sioux Falls

Sioux Falls Residential Landscape Wins National Gold Award

NALP Gold Award - landscape design in Sioux Falls, SD

Sioux Falls Landscape Team Wins National Award

We are proud to announce we have been awarded an Award of Excellence – Gold by the National Association of Landscape Professionals.

“It’s an honor to receive the Gold Award from NALP,” says Cole Weller, Weller Brothers CEO and President. “This project exemplifies our purpose in action – creating outdoor spaces for life’s best moments.

Chad Kasten, Senior Landscape Designer, did an excellent job meeting the clients’ needs and giving them a beautiful backyard to make memories with family and friends.

Our operations team, including Landscape Operations Manager Tyler Nelson and Foreman Nolan Meier, executed the job wonderfully. They are just a few of the many team members it takes to bring a project like this to life. It’s a proud moment for the whole Weller Brothers team!”

Before and After

This once-empty, sloped area was transformed into a multi-level oasis featuring large natural stone retaining walls, a custom-lit pool, artificial turf areas, an outdoor kitchen, extensive softscapes, and more.

Our team completed the project in two phases over two years.

a sioux falls residential backyard with multi-level retaining walls, a pool, patio, and more

"We had a moment, right before the Fourth of July, when we were relaxing and all five kids were in the pool playing and throwing each other around. And it was really kind of an emotional moment; we knew it was worth it. This is it. This is why we did it."

– Homeowner

front yard of a sioux falls home before landscaping

an award-winning front-yard landscape design in sioux falls

About the NALP Excellence Awards

Each year, the National Association Landscape Professionals Awards of Excellence recognizes exceptional commercial and residential lawn care and landscape installation, maintenance, and design projects from around the nation.

This year, 246 awards were bestowed to companies for their outstanding work.

This is the second time Weller Brothers has won a national Award of Excellence; the Rochester, MN, team won a Bronze award in 2023.

Take a Tour of the Winning Project in Sioux Falls, SD

While you may not be able to relax in this backyard yourself, you can certainly take a virtual tour of this award-winning backyard in Sioux Falls!

Then, once you’re feeling inspired, reach out to us to begin creating your outdoor living space in Rochester, Sioux Falls, or Des Moines. Who knows – maybe it will win our next award!

Sioux Falls