Hall Of Fame Inductees

 

The individuals nominated should have made a significant impact or positive influence that assures the future of our industry in the lives of generations to come.

 

Once nominated, an individual’s biography and photo are updated on the site, and he or she is placed in the polls for voting. At the end of the year the committee takes into consideration the votes and decides which candidates are inducted.

 

Those with a star (*) next to their name below were either inducted posthumously or have passed away since being inducted.

 

Nomination Qualifications

  • Person with integrity and passion
  • Minimum 20 years in industry
  • Someone who has developed  or invented  new technology
  • Has made contributions that resulted in change
  • Contributed to mankind’s needs in his field
  • Provided education and encouragement  with self-sacrifice
  • Changed the industry

Mike Atkinson

 

Mike Atkinson has enjoyed a long carrier in the green industry with his focus on Landscape and Horticulture management. His carrier spans over 4 decades with his involvement in the commercial and private sectors. His current position as the Senior Manager of Horticulture at The Disneyland Resort rounds off a carrier filled with opportunities and working with wonderful people. At the Resort, Mike collaborates with the unit managers and their cast in the departments of Pest Management (IPM), Arboriculture and Tree Assessment, hotel landscape maintenance and finally the parking lot landscape contract services.

 

Mike started his landscape industry journey in the late 1970’s performing various jobs for neighbors and friends. His passion transitioned into heading to Cal Poly Pomona where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Ornamental Horticulture, graduating in 1981. After a few smaller opportunities, Mike accepted a position at The Irvine Company in Newport Beach where his interest and passion grew in the Commercial Landscape industry.

 

Over the next 35 years Mike enjoyed working for several landscape companies as well as owning his own venture as he was always looking to deliver the best landscape product for his clients and customers. His focus on continuing to improve himself was achieved by his gaining various licenses and certificates. Mike holds a C-27 contractor’s license; a DPR Licensee of a PCA and QAL; ISA Certified Arborist and a TRAQ certificate as well as a Green Shield IPM certificate.

 

A change in the focus of his carrier brought Mike to the City of Anaheim as a superintendent of the Landscape Right-of Way, City Arborist as well as the Superintendent of the Anaheim Resort Maintenance District.

 

Mike has been married to his wonderful wife Margaret for over 44 years and together they have four adult young men who are all married and have a collective of nine energetic grandchildren. 

 

Mikes family enjoys spending time together and be active in many outside activities.