Get to Know OC Chapter President: Dave Horton

Dave Horton, 2024 OC Chapter President and owner of multi award-winning landscape company So Cal Concepts, has been in the industry for many years and brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the board. We hope that in getting to know him, you will see the many benefits of CLCA and be encouraged to get more involved.

What inspired you to work in the landscaping industry? Where did you get your start?

I grew up working in the yard with my dad and often did garden work with my grandmother. In High School, looking to earn money for my dirt bike racing, I started a lawn care business. It seemed to come really easy to me and I enjoyed making the yards nice. When it came time to go to college, I enrolled in the Horticulture Program at Fullerton. I found that I really enjoyed all aspects of landscaping, including design and construction.

How did you find out about CLCA?

I started working for Richard Cohen Landscape & Construction in 1989, shortly after earning my C27 license. From the very beginning, Richard had me attend the CLCA educational events. He also invited me to the Beautification Awards banquets. For me, going to the awards was like going to the Oscars. It was such a special event.

What prompted you to join CLCA and get involved?

When I started So Cal Concepts in early 2004, the first thing I did was join CLCA. It made me feel like I was a part of something. It made my company more professional too. CLCA offers a unique opportunity in its annual beautification awards program. Entering the competition is a great way to test yourself against other quality contractors. My goal was to be an award-winning company and this goal drove me to raise my game and quality quickly.

What benefits have you seen from your membership and being involved?

The benefits of being a CLCA member and board member have been huge. It’s exposed me to other professionals and their experiences. Being able to ask questions of people that have already invented the wheel has allowed me to fast-track my company to where it is today. Meeting suppliers and establishing relationships with them has given me a direct line to great service and purchasing power. We also receive referrals for work within the CLCA family and we do the same in return.

I would like to add that being involved in CLCA has made me a better contractor and professional. I feel that for the last 20 years I have been a part of something bigger. A part of something that was established decades ago and will continue when I’m gone. Something that helped to create our industry and something that will continue to shape it forever.

You’re serving as President in 2024. What impact would you like to make this year?

As President I want to build our base of new members and continue to make the Beautification Awards something special that members are excited to participate in.