Scouting, Lacrosse, Soccer, Plants, Travel
Dakota Lepker
Raytown,MO
Summary
Results-driven horticultural professional with a strong background in greenhouse management and crop production. Known for optimizing plant growth environments and implementing sustainable practices, committed to continuously improving skills as a horticulturalist. Recognized for collaborative approach, adaptability, and unwavering commitment to achieving high standards. Consistently brings kindness and positive energy to every project, fostering a productive and harmonious work environment.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Senior Gardener, Production
Powell Gardens
05.2023 - Current
- Helped manage and grow 50,000+ plants annually, including show quality display poinsettias
- Operated 4 large production greenhouses and outdoor areas to reach desired crop number and quality of over 50 different crops each season
- Coordinated full production phases including seed ordering, sorting, scheduling, sowing, germination, transplanting, growing, grooming, finishing, shipping, inventory, and more
- Maintained regulatory compliance by following local, state, and federal guidelines regarding pesticide use, water conservation, and waste disposal.
- Maximized space usage within the greenhouse through strategic arrangement of plants according to size, light requirements, and other environmental factors.
- Successfully grew seasonal display annuals, tropicals, and perennials for botanical garden display beds
- Maintained accurate records of inventory levels, plant growth cycles, and other pertinent data for management review.
Propagation Intern
Loma Vista Nursery
04.2022 - 08.2022
- Watered, pruned, and groomed plants and trees to maintain health and attractiveness over the 310-acre facility.
- Cultivated soil and added fertilizer, compost, and amendments.
- Inspected plants to identify signs of disease or infestation and address problems early multiple times a week.
- Managed a wide variety of plants, from seedlings to mature specimens, keeping soils and planting beds healthy and conducive for growth.
- Assembled and maintained greenhouses and other structures to assist with business operations.
- Transplanted seedlings and young plants to promote growth and prepare plants for sale or transfer to other locations.
- Unloaded plants and nursery items from delivery trucks, as well as loaded delivery trucks for sale.
Seasonal Sales Associate
Zales The Diamond Store
Overland Park, Kansas
11.2020 - 12.2023
- Generated new sales leads to achieve and exceed monthly sales goals.
- Rotated stock and restocked shelves to maintain product availability and store appearance.
- Assessed customer needs and utilized suggestive selling techniques to drive sales.
- Prepared merchandise for sales floor by pricing or tagging.
- Served customers with knowledgeable, friendly support at every stage of shopping and purchasing.
- Managed returns, exchanges and refunds in accordance with store policy.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Biology
Ottawa University
Ottawa, KSHigh School Diploma -
Truman High School
Independence, MOSkills
- Greenhouse Management
- Time Management
- Monitor Growth
- Leadership Competency
- Production Processes
- Flexible schedule
- Pest management
- Plant cultivation expertise
- Continuous learning attitude
- Pruning and Maintaining
- Garden maintenance
Accomplishments
- Troop 1201 Scoutmaster
- Eagle Scout Award- 2017
- CEO's Excellence Award 2024
- FOL Shining Light Award 2025
- College Lacrosse Captain
Affiliations
- ScoutingBSA
- Phi Delta Theta
Certification
- Certified Pesticide Applicator License - Missouri
Interests
Timeline
Senior Gardener, Production
Powell Gardens
05.2023 - Current
Propagation Intern
Loma Vista Nursery
04.2022 - 08.2022
Seasonal Sales Associate
Zales The Diamond Store
11.2020 - 12.2023
Bachelor of Science - Biology
Ottawa University
High School Diploma -
Truman High School