Snow Talk with SIMA: Recent Episodes

Snow Talk by SIMA

Snow Talk with SIMA provides in-depth interviews with industry leaders and brings an insider look at what makes our industry work. From leadership to operations to life in the industry, Snow Talk with SIMA brings our vast snow and ice network a little closer together.

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When Paul Vanderzon received SIMA’s prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award, it wasn’t just about a career; it was a testament to decades of giving back, mentoring, and leading in the snow and ice industry. From a young boy on a Montreal snowplow to one of the most influential figures in North America, Paul shares the raw and inspiring story of building a legacy rooted in service, innovation, and community. His journey shows that success isn’t just measured in driveways cleared but in lives touched and industry standards elevated.

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Most snow professionals aren’t prepared for the next salt shortage - and it could cost your business more than you think. In this eye-opening episode, industry expert Phil Sexton reveals the hidden factors behind the 2025-26 salt crisis and offers actionable strategies to future-proof your operations.

Phil breaks down the domino effect of regulations, environmental impacts, and global dependencies that led to this year’s soaring costs—up to $300 per ton in some areas—and explains what every contractor must do now to avoid being hit again.

Discover how decades of environmental and logistical challenges have created a fragile salt supply chain, and why relying solely on traditional sourcing and pricing models is a recipe for disaster.

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Jack of All People Trades' founder Evan Tachoir joins Snow Talk to share his perspectives on employee engagement, delegation and how to thrive when you understand your "why".

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In this episode, we’re diving deep into the highs and lows of a truly unpredictable winter. From the historic mid-March 2026 storms that blanketed the Northeast and upper Midwest to the challenging droughts out West, we’re breaking down the data that defined the last four months.

This episode features insights from two industry powerhouses:

  • Deb Mattson, CSP (Business Manager at Allied Snow Removal): Deb shares how her team navigated the intense Northeast storm cycle, the lessons learned on the front lines, and how customer expectations are shifting in the wake of "big weather" events.
  • Jennifer Walth, CSP (Senior Manager at Douglas Dynamics): Jennifer brings a manufacturer's perspective to the table, discussing the latest in equipment performance and industry trends.

Whether you're managing a fleet or a business, tune in to hear how the pros handled one of the most unusual winters on record and what it means for the future of snow and ice management.

Special thanks to our sponsors:This season of Snow Talk is proudly sponsored by Western Snow Plows and Fisher Engineering.

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Snow Talk host Martin Tirado speaks with England-based Accugrit's Dean Harvey to chat the differences in snow and ice management in North America compared with the United Kingdom. Plus, they talk a little football (not the American kind).

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In this episode of Snow Talk, host Martin Tirado speaks with Jacob Shivo, a leader in the snow and ice management industry. Jacob shares his journey into the field, his company's response to Hurricane Pauline, and the importance of community and networking in the industry. The conversation highlights the challenges faced during recovery efforts, innovations in snow management, and the significance of building relationships within the industry.

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Join me on this episode of Snow Talk as we explore the vital connection between sales and operations at EMI, a leading snow management company. We'll discuss how EMI effectively aligns these departments to streamline processes, enhance communication, and ensure operational efficiency, especially during winter storms. I’m joined by Scott Shelton, the Business Development Manager, and Zach Kolasa, Operations Manager, who share insights on their comprehensive sales strategies, robust training programs, and the importance of educating clients on service expectations. As the conversation unfolds, we’ll also examine tools and technologies that support seamless operations and improve customer experiences. Tune in for valuable lessons that can elevate your snow management business.

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In this episode of Snow Talk, we explore the unique challenges of snow management in the Mid-Atlantic region, from Washington, DC, to Baltimore. Joined by industry experts Steve Mruk of Potomac Lawns and Mike McCarron of ImageWorks Landscaping, we delve into the complexities of operating in an area with inconsistent snowfall. We discuss the impact of heavy traffic, school schedules, and government operations on snow management. Our conversation also highlights the importance of training, technology, and innovative solutions like liquid deicing. Tune in as we uncover how contractors navigate unpredictable weather and client expectations in this demanding market.

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In this conversation, SIMA Foundation CEO, Martin Tirado, discusses the role of associations and their sister organizations, 501c3 foundations, can build the industry through research and the importance of understanding the industry's impact for growth. He emphasizes the need for financial support from stakeholders to continue this progress with his guest, SIMA Foundation Board Chair, Jim Hornung, Jr., CSP (Elbers Landscape Services, Inc.)

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In this year-in-review podcast, Martin Tirado, CEO of SIMA, discusses the past year's achievements and future plans with board members Chris Hinton, CSP (GRM Inc.) and Jeff Heller, CSP (Innovative Maintenance Solutions). They highlight strategic planning initiatives, the launch of the Accelerate program for emerging leaders, and the upcoming symposium in Cincinnati. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community engagement, addressing insurance challenges, and the role of the SIMA Foundation in supporting industry research and education. Listeners are encouraged to get involved and take advantage of the resources available through SIMA.

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Jim Plona, Director of Snow & Ice at McNelly Services in Lake Zurich, Illinois, and Evan Newman discuss how to scale a snow business – smartly and sustainably.

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In this episode of Snow Talk, we dive into the financial landscape of the snow and ice management industry with Steve Wolff, founder of WOLFFWORKS Consulting. We explore the findings of SIMA's 2025 Profitability and Benchmarking Study, which surveyed 161 firms across North America. Discover how the average snow business operates, from revenue streams to cost structures, and learn about the economic challenges impacting profitability. We also discuss strategies for growth, including contract types and pricing models, to help your business thrive despite rising labor and equipment costs. Join us for insights that could reshape your approach to snow management.

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In this episode of Snow Talk, Evan Newman from SIMA sits down with Kevin Stonitsch, CSP, owner of Adirondack Customs, to explore the vital topics of culture and accountability in the snow industry. We delve into the importance of building an engaged team and the tough decisions leaders must face, including letting go of team members who do not align with company values. Kevin shares his experiences with the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) and how it has helped his team thrive during challenging winter months. We discuss the significance of transparency, trust, and maintaining a strong culture even during difficult times. Join us for insights that can empower you to enhance your leadership approach and cultivate a more cohesive and effective team in the snow and ice management industry.

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Russ Marsan of Carpenter & Costin in Vermont joins Snow Talk to discuss his efforts in elevating the importance of the trades through his work with Bring Back the Trades.

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Blizzards in the deep south...say what?! Levi Jett, CSP, ASM, joins Snow Talk to share stories of how he and a team of snow fighters traveled to New Orleans to assist municipalities that were out of their element when a blizzard bore down on a large swath of the south.

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JC Grounds Management's Jon Crandall, CSP, discusses the importance of educating property managers on snow removal. He also shares his new book, which he wrote to help the industry with that outreach.

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Snow Mikhail Ter-Grigoryan, president of Just for Snow Property Services, covers his insights on the snow removal industry, including preparation, best practices, employee engagement, innovation, competition, attracting and identifying talent, workplace culture, momentum, risk-taking, and perspective.

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On this month's episode of Snow Talk, we sit down with President of G. McNeill & Son Contracting, Shane McNeill. He shares what lessons and hardships have looked like navigating a third generation family owned business. We also discuss what he does to develop his people and what tools have proven to be useful in their growth goals. We'll also discuss what Shane and company are keeping a pulse on in regard to future opportunities.
Thanks to our sponsors Western Snow Plows, Fisher Engineering, and SnowEx

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This month on Snow Talk, we're remembering Alan Steiman, a SIMA leader who left a lasting impact. Deb Mattson and Debora Babin Katz join us to share stories of Alan and discuss the scholarship created in his name. We'll also talk about the value of attending the SIMA Symposium and how it's evolving for contractors. Don't miss it!

Thanks to our sponsors Western, Fisher, and SnowEx

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Building trust through transparency

Nick Alborella, Vice President of Advanced Snow Management, talked with SIMA about the importance of trust and transparency in building client relationships, the foundational strategies for launching a snow management business, and the role of technology in enhancing communication and efficiency.

He highlights the necessity of being comfortable with discomfort to foster growth, the challenges of maintaining a good reputation in a scrutinized industry, and the significance of transparent pricing. The discussion also touched on the value of learning from others' experiences to enhance business practices and sustainability.

Key takeaways:

  • Effective communication is key to understanding client needs.
  • Systemizing operations ensures consistency and reliability.
  • Technology aids in transparency but should not replace personal interaction.
  • Client education helps in setting realistic expectations.
  • Providing an experience, not just a service, enhances client satisfaction.

Thanks to our sponsors Western, Fisher, and SnowEx

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We wrap up 2024 with a great episode featuring Outdoor Pride Landscaping & Snow Management's Billy Butts and Garden Grove Commercial Grounds and Snow Management's David Lammers, who talk about the power of networking. Hint ... it's not about what's in it for you!

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Skyline's Mark Arthofer joins SIMA's Evan Newman to talk about building partnerships and relationships between private snow contractors and public works entities like municipalities, airports, military bases and more.

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Industry consultant Angela Cenzalli and The Integra Group’s Jenny Girard explore personal experiences with mental health challenges, the detrimental industry norms that contribute to burnout, and the importance of creating a culture of wellness and support.

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Bill Akehurst, Vice President and Chief Information Officer for Akehurst Landscape joins Snow Talk to discuss worst-case scenarios that snow & ice management companies could face. Host Cheryl Higley, Director of Education & Content for SIMA, is joined by Amanda Pruss, SIMA's senior membership manager to go over scenarios like cyber attacks, fire, accidents, and more.

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Tory Chlanda from Betterview Landscapes in Amherst, MA joins Snow Talk to share the importance of intentionality in business planning and how it leads to greater sales and revenues. Listen for these tips and more:
* Selling safety can set a company apart from the competition. * Educating clients on the importance of safety and communicating it through various channels is key to success. * Hiring the right people and involving them in the strategy-building process is crucial for success.

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It's summer but it's never to early to start reviewing your winter preventive maintenance plans! Stork's Plows' Jeen Stork joins Snow Talk to talk about the perils of ignoring preventive maintenance and how even the littlest missed details can cause big trouble. Listen for these tips and more:
* Preventive maintenance is crucial for snow equipment to prevent wear and costly breakdowns. * The role of a dealer is significant in providing support, education, and quick access to parts for snow contractors. * The snow equipment industry is evolving with the integration of electronics and computer-operated systems, presenting new challenges and opportunities.

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We're in the middle of renewal and sales season for winter services. Ramblin Jackson's Jack Jostes joins Snow Talk to discuss how to make it a successful one. Listen for these tips and more:* Renewals present challenges such as changes in point of contact and changes in snowfall, requiring proactive communication and customer feedback throughout the year. * Identifying 'hell yes' customers involves understanding demand, profitability, and passion, and tailoring marketing and sales strategies to attract and retain these ideal clients. * The RFP process benefits from clear definitions and exacting language, fostering trust and understanding between contractors and clients. * Maintaining relationships with clients throughout the year, not just during the renewal process, is crucial for successful sales and renewals.

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East Coast Facilities' Joshua Brecht joins Snow Talk to discuss video content development and marketing in the snow and ice industry. Listen for these tips and more:* How video content development and marketing can help elevate the snow and ice industry by showcasing the work, people, and company. * It doesn't have to be an expensive endeavor. Start with basic equipment like smartphones and encourage team members to capture and share photos and videos. * Build a culture where everyone is involved in creating and sharing content, which can lead to increased team engagement and motivation.

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The Grow Group's Vince Torchia and McFarlin Stanford's Jennifer Murray join Snow Talk to share how they counsel landscaping and snow companies to be financially healthy. Listen for this tips and more:
* Look beyond revenue to include understanding margins and profits. * Have enough liquidity to manage through rough patches. * Building a "sell"-worthy company.

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Colorado Green Pros' David LaFore joins SIMA’s Senior Manager of Membership Evan Newman on the latest episode of Snow Talk to chat about how snow and ice professionals can use technology as a customer service tool. Listen in for these tips and more:
* Improve customer satisfaction by providing transparency and accountability. * Communicate with teams and subcontractors. * Enhance customer experiences and streamline business processes.

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Earth Development President and CEO Eddy Zakes, CSP and SIMA’s Senior Manager of Membership Evan Newman packed a lot of great points into this episode of Snow Talk. Listen in to hear Zakes’ approach to:
* Company culture * Education and personal development * Recognition and rewards * A deep bench of emerging leaders * Leadership authenticity and transparency

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Jim Monk of MPS Property Services and Gerald Boot of Boot’s Landscaping in Ontario discuss their advocacy work in establishing a recognized standard for the snow and ice industry, their approach to insurance and more.

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Zech Strauser, founder of Strauser Nature's Helpers in Allentown, PA, joins SIMA CEO Martin Tirado to talk about the importance of camaraderie in the snow & ice industry, the challenges of sustainability and innovation, and his work in promoting landscape and snow as a "green collar" career opportunity.

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There is a growing focus on legislation designed to limit liability for companies that participate in salt applicator certification programs. Ted Diers of the NH Department of Environmental Services and Allison Madison of WI SaltWise join SIMA CEO Martin Tirado to discuss their work in this area.

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Host Evan Newman is back with Piscataqua Landscaping President & CEO Justin Gamester, CSP, and Darci Knowles, founder and creative director of DARCI Creative. Evan follows up on some additional topics and tangible action items.

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Snow pros Bill Butts of Outdoor Pride Landscaping, Bob Marks of EMI Landscape and Eric Klopfer of Environmental Management Inc. talk about the changing climatology happening in their markets and the impact on their snow businesses.

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Host Evan Newman welcomes Piscataqua Landscaping President & CEO Justin Gamester, CSP, and Darci Knowles, founder and creative director of DARCI Creative. Listen in to hear Justin's journey to realizing he needed marketing help to grow revenue and how Darci has helped.

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Host Martin Tirado and guests JP Sanieski, CSP, ASM of East End Group in Long Island and Tom Marsan, CSP of The Beverly Companies in Chicago wrap up their 3-part conversation on snow operations planning. The snow may be done but that doesn’t mean winter planning stops. Listen in on what you should be doing to tie up loose ends and look toward this coming winter.

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The newest episode of SIMA’s Snow Talk podcast features WeatherWorks’ Frank Lombardo and Douglas Dynamics’ Andy McArdle recap the winter season and identify changes snow pros should be considering; the impact the low winters have on smaller contractors; the importance of sharing weather data with your clients; and equipment buying trends. Plus Frank puts in a request to Andy to engineer a plow that can weigh snow by the pound to those messy mixed precipitation events.

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This episode of SIMA’s Snow Talk podcast features SIMA’s new Membership Manager Evan Newman talking with two snow professionals that have excelled in embedding a culture of safety in their companies. Listen for insights from East Coast Facilities’ Edwin Torres and Designscapes Colorado’s Michael Wagner, CSP, ASM

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Season 5 of SIMA’s Snow Talk podcast kicks off with a conversation between host Martin Tirado and guests JP Sanieski, CSP, ASM of East End Group in Long Island, and Tom Marsan, CSP of The Beverly Companies in Chicago. They’ll talk about in-season adjustments to consider and share how they’re keeping teams busy in a (so far) low snow season.

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Host Martin Tirado welcomes Thane Isaacs and industry legend Dale Keep to swap stories about some of the crazy and scary scenarios they’ve seen during their careers. Like true crime podcasts? You won’t want to miss Dale’s story about a murderer on the loose!

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Levi Jett of Jett Facility Consultants developed a communications plan and mock storm scenario planning method using his experience in the military. He and host Martin Tirado talk about those methods and where he sees companies failing in the latest episode of Snow Talk.

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Kasel Rocks Landscape Company’s Scott Lesak takes listeners on his personal journey of self-discovery. He shares how overcoming addiction and learning he had to put himself first to right the ship and to be in a place where he could help others and grow his business.

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JSP Tree and Landscape’s Jacob Shivo shares how a random encounter with a SIMA member at a gas station transformed his career in snow and ice. He and his wife, Caiyan, also detail what they've learned and how they hope to give back to an industry that has welcomed them.

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SIMA CEO Martin Tirado brings together Tom Marsan of the Beverly Companies and JP Sanieski of the East End Group to review the areas that snow companies should be focusing on leading up to the season.

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Spiritus Business Advisors principal and longtime SIMA member David Gallagher and Transblue’s David Wescott, CSP, weigh in on key mistakes snow providers make that can undermine their success in the industry and offer suggestions on how to avoid them.

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SIMA CEO Martin Tirado welcomes JC Grounds Management’s Jon Crandall, CSP, Innovations Tomorrow’s Thane Isaacs and WeatherWorks President Frank Lombardo to talk about the challenges snow contractors are facing as weather patterns change the “typical” snow landscape. Plus how contractors are managing increased fuel costs.

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SIMA CEO Martin Tirado and Director of Events Heather Carew and Douglas Dynamics’ Mark Adamson preview the 25th Annual Snow & Ice Symposium taking place June 21-24. Listen in and learn about great networking opportunities and the 140+ exhibitors that will be on the trade show floor.

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In this episode, we are going to be talking about products that revolutionized the snow industry. We have some exciting products and the people and companies that are behind them, joining us for this conversation.

Featuring Thane Isaacs, of Innovations Tomorrow. He’ll be joining to bring his wealth of knowledge and experience to our conversations.

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Spring may have sprung but WIT Advisers’ Phill Sexton, CSP, ASM and Elbers Landscape Service’s Jim Hornung Jr., CSP, say you should already be thinking ahead to winter 2022-23. With supply chain and labor still an issue, making the most of offseason opportunities will better prepare you for the upcoming season.

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Starting over with a new outlook on life and business featuring HLM Property Management’s
Rick Huffman, CSP

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Introspection, coaching leads to exponential growth featuring Bozeman Site Services’ Doug Duschene

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Catch up with Bob Iverson of Douglas Dynamics to talk spreader tech and the future of ice control.

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Matt Steele, a 2021 Snow Operations Manager of the Year award recipient, along with his General Manager George Armstrong, discuss industry personnel development, and logistics and training. In their respective roles, they have helped Monster Plowing Company in Toronto, Ontario grow its snow business. Monster Plowing Company services over 450 seasonal clients and has been awarded many times for its innovative approach to snow and ice management.

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Doug Clark is Product Manager, Snow Control, for Douglas Dynamics. He oversees product development and innovation for all truck-related snow control products for various brands, including Western Plows and Fisher Plows. Doug has an extensive background in product management for various industries, including the polymer industry. He served 4 years active duty in the Army and 8 years reserve military service.

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Tom Crawford is Snow & Ice Services Manager for Mariani Landscape, which provides service to high-end residential and commercial clients in suburban Chicago. He has 20+ years of experience in operations and management for the green and white industries.

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Diana Clonch has over 35 years of experience in public works with a diverse background in operations, management, snow and ice control and innovative technologies at the county, city and state levels. She is a founding and longtime member of the National APWA Winter Maintenance Subcommittee, and a member of the TRB Maintenance & Operations Personnel Committee and Winter Maintenance Committee. Diana received the 2019 National APWA Top Ten Leaders of the Year award.

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Tyler Jones serves as Product Manager for Douglas Dynamics. He has a long history of recreational use of ATV’s and UTV’s, and brings that passion to his role in aiding in the development of products for those vehicles in a snow management setting.

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Bob Young is a retired police officer and Army veteran and is President/CEO of K.E.Y. Property Services, Inc. in Palmer, MA. He has been an engaged and passionate member of SIMA since 2010.

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Paul has 35+ years of experience in the snow industry, leading his company with his brothers in residential and commercial accounts. He is an active member of SIMA, past member of the board of directors, and currently serves as Vice Chair for the SIMA Foundation board.

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Bob Marks is an experienced snow professional, who recently served as COO of emi landscape in Macungie, PA, overseeing a multi-million dollar operation, hiring personnel, developing training, and serving as the primary contact for clients. Bob recently took ownership of emi and is stepping into the CEO role.

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Mary Abbott, PhD, RN, MSF, is the managing partner of Mow Beta! Mowing & Snowplowing, a family-owned business specializing in tough mowing jobs as well as snow and ice management in central Arkansas. Mary shares the stressors and successes of being a snow contractor in a fringe market where snow droughts can last years.

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We sat down with Seth Bergerud, Product Manager - Parts & Accessories for Douglas Dynamics, and caught up on the latest innovations and best practices related to snowplows and accessories.

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Dale Keep, owner of Ice & Snow Technologies, in Walla Walla, WA, is a long-time industry leader and SIMA supporter. He’s an industry expert in operations engineering, training, deicer science, and liquids benefits and implementation. SIMA caught up with Dale to talk about the industry, how its matured, what makes it challenging, and a whole lot more.

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Wayne Michalak, CSP is the founder of The Greener Side in Michigan. His business career started at the age of 10 when he began towing his parent’s lawn mower down the street behind his bike to mow a couple of lawns. Today, The Greener Side Inc. services 180 high-end commercial accounts and utilizes over 100 contractors and employees. He is a husband and father of 3 wonderful kids, and is currently church deacon. Wayne is the 2021 Chair of the SIMA Board of Directors.

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"I like people second guessing and saying 'I don't think she can do that,' because my reaction is 'Watch me'."

Laura Ingram, CSP is a second-generation snow contractor who serves as Director of Operations for Ingram Enterprises, co-running the business with her father and her sister. Having grown up in the snow industry, she trained as a math teacher and taught for several years before coming back to work full time in snow. In 2020, she became the first female Board Chair for the Snow & Ice Management Association, and helped guide the association through one of the most challenging times in its history.

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Michael Anderson, CSP is the founder and president of Snow & Ice Pros, Inc. in Highland, IN. He has over 25 years of experience in the snow industry and was the first Certified Snow Professional in Indiana. Michael has served the industry in many capacities, including as SIMA Board Chair and as a key engaged volunteer for many years. He has helped mentor many snow professionals and continues to help keep the focus on professionalism in the industry.

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Xtreme Snow Pros is a snow-only contracting company based that services areas of New York and New Jersey. Chris Marino, ASM serves as the Chief Visionary Officer of the company, managing all aspects of the business with his wife Dawn. Chris is a long-time advocate for the snow industry and recently joined SIMA’s Board of Directors to continue to give back to the industry he loves.

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Signature Land Services was formed by Jennifer and Tim Schrage as a premier provider of asphalt paving, asphalt maintenance, site work, and commercial snow removal in the Anchorage market. Jen is company president and oversees major client relations, marketing, and contract management; Tim serves as vice president.

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Jay Rotennelli, ASM, is a snow veteran with 20+ years of experience in the industry. As VP of Business Development at Piscataqua Landscaping & Tree Service in Maine, Jay helps organize and manage client relationships, subcontractors, and more. His passion for the industry has led to his involvement in SIMA and the New Hampshire Green SnowPros program, allowing him to engage and help mentor fellow snow pros.

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As part of our Operations series, we are speaking with Nick Sharf, CSP, Operations Efficiency Manager. Greg’s Lawn and Landscaping.

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Steve Wheatcroft is an entrepreneur with many years of experience leading in snow, as well as starting and growing new companies and initiatives. He currently serves as CEO of ULS, a large landscaping design, construction and maintenance company that specializes in snow and ice management. He also is the founder of Spectrum Equipment, which provides end-to-end equipment management solutions, including sales and rentals of heavy equipment and snow attachments. He also helped create the Western Canadian Snow & Ice Summit, a regional snow-specific show that includes education, networking, and equipment expo.

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John Janes speaks upon his role at Caterpillar and how he has built a foundation of partnership with the snow and ice industry. He also describes how his military experience molded his journey into developing his work ethic and establishing the rules of leadership that guides him to this day.

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Cory Wise joins us for a conversation in leadership that centers around his unique situation of leading a snow and ice company in a market that is traditionally a low-snow market. He talks about the strategy and approach his company uses as well as how that dynamic taught him a lot about leadership and snow and ice management.

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In this episode, we continue our conversation with Michael Merrill, CEO of North Country Snow and Ice Management in Glens Falls, NY and WinterPlanning.com. In the final part of our talk, Merrill gives his take on the job market as a whole as well in the snow and ice industry. He also touches upon immigration, autonomous equipment and what the future holds for snow and ice labor.

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In this episode, we’re speaking with Michael Merrill, CEO of North Country Snow and Ice Management in Glens Falls, NY and WinterPlanning.com. In the first part of our conversation, we hear his take on snow and ice labor through his professional journey and insight. We also learn why he views himself as a “reluctant” consultant, and why we should take into account the concerning shift in the concept of labor.

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In our latest installment, we’re speaking with smart building expert Sean Hartnett of Microsoft. We learn the definition of a “smart” building, how technology has assisted snow and ice contractors to become better predictors and how it is changing the industry in the long term.

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In our latest installment, we’re speaking with parking expert Carl Schneeman, Director of Operations for Walker Consultants. We learn about the mutual relationship between the details of parking design and the science of snow and ice removal, what the challenges are and the impact it will have in the future.

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In our latest installment, we’re speaking with Kris Wagner, VP of Marketing at Left Hand Robotics. We learn about the role autonomous robots play in snow removal, how it has evolved and where it will take the snow and ice industry in the future.

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In our latest installment, we’re speaking with John Janes of Caterpillar, Inc. He’ll discuss how equipment innovations are currently shaping the snow and ice industry and what’s ahead in the future.

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In our latest installment of the Future of Work in Snow and Ice, sponsored by Caterpillar, Shannon Kenny, Vice President of Operations, Exterior Services for SMS Assist talks about how the facilities management industry views the impact of winter weather, what role does technology play and where it will all lead in the future.
We also speak with David Wescott, CEO of Transblue, LLC about how his company uses weather analytics to better serve his customers and how business intelligence will play a larger role in the snow and ice industry.

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In our first installment of The Future of Snow and Ice — sponsored by Caterpillar, Inc. —WeatherWorks CEO Frank Lombardo talks about the evolution of weather forecasting over the next 5 to 10 years and how it will affect snow and ice professionals going forward.

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As part of our leadership series, we’re speaking with David Lammers, founder of Garden Grove Commercial Grounds & Snow Management in Waterdown, Ontario, Canada. We discuss the importance of vision, the special bond of working alongside his brother Paul and how the industry should be proactive when it comes to salt procurement.

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As part of our leadership series, we’re speaking with Phill Sexton, founder and CEO of WIT Advisers. We’ll discuss the Sustainable Winter Management (SWiM) program, how he “cut his teeth” in the snow and ice industry and how we should take a new approach to salt.

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As part of our leadership series, we’ll speak with Jeff Tovar, Owner of Tovar Snow Professionals in East Dundee, Illinois. Tovar is an original SIMA board member as well as author of “Success Leaves Clues: Tips that worked for me.”. We’ll learn about Tovar’s transition from veterinarian student/football player to snow warrior/businessman. Plus, we talk about where the snow and ice industry is going and how the Tovar Way led to a chance meeting with Richard Branson.

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As part of our leadership series, we'll talk to Carl Bolm, founder of BSR Services out of St. Louis, Missouri. Bolm, who is also SIMA board chair, discusses his beginnings in the snow and ice industry, the issues it's facing, entrepreneurship and the importance of diversification.

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As part of our leadership series, we’ll speak with Debora Babin Katz, Vice President of TrucBrush Corporation. Katz is a SIMA board member as well as contributor to Snow Business magazine. We’ll learn about Katz’s journey as an entrepreneur, her work with TrucBrush and what it takes to have grit in this industry to succeed.

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As part of our leadership series, we’re speaking with Jonathan Crandall, owner of JC Grounds, located in Danvers, Massachusetts. Crandall is also a SIMA board member. In this episode, we delve into his leadership style in the area of personal development, how major life changes forged his personal resolve and learn how he invests in people as well as his business.