EMMANUEL GODBLESS OWUSU
Ames
Summary
A results-driven landscape design professional with 7 years of progressive experience in landscape design, project management, and sustainable site planning. Combines proven leadership, a collaborative spirit, and a strong continuous learning ethic to deliver innovative, evidence-based, and climate-responsive solutions. Technically proficient in industry-standard design software, with a consistent drive to expand expertise and apply cutting-edge, sustainable practices that create lasting environmental value.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Landscape Management Intern
Iowa State University, Department of Facility Planning and Management
Ames, IA
05.2025 - 08.2025
- Assisted in developing facility management strategies to enhance operational efficiency
- Mentored new interns on effective project planning and execution techniques.
- Executed precision planting and maintenance of ornamental landscapes supporting campus sustainability initiatives and aesthetic enhancement programs
- Learned and used technology systems and platforms to assist with tasks.
Landscape Management Intern
Iowa State University, Department of Facility Planning and Management
Ames, IA
05.2024 - 08.2024
- Operated specialized landscape equipment including commercial mowers, tractors, and irrigation systems to maintain over 1,800 acre campus grounds
- Implemented integrated maintenance protocols for decorative planters, ornamental beds, and specimen plantings
- Performed detailed trimming, edging, and pruning operations around pedestrian corridors, courtyards, and building perimeters
- Executed precision planting and maintenance of ornamental landscapes supporting campus sustainability initiatives and aesthetic enhancement programs
Landscape Operations Manager
Fides Property Limited
Accra, Ghana
04.2022 - 08.2023
- Produced comprehensive landscape design drawings and construction documents for Residential and Commercial project.
- Directed landscape crews of 8-12 personnel in executing complex commercial and residential landscape installation projects valued at up to $50,000
- Established quality control standards and conducted regular site inspections to ensure compliance with design specifications and client expectations
- Managed equipment inventory, maintenance schedules, and fleet operations for efficient project delivery
- Developed crew training programs focused on proper equipment operation, horticultural best practices, and workplace safety protocols
- Coordinated with property managers and clients to resolve site-specific challenges and ensure project satisfaction
- Administered daily workforce scheduling, time tracking, and payroll documentation
- Provided horticultural consultation to clients regarding plant selection, seasonal care requirements, and long-term landscape management strategies
Landscape Designer
Hortus Landscape Service
Kumasi, Ghana
11.2016 - 12.2021
- Produced comprehensive landscape design drawings and construction documents under supervision of Senior Landscape Architect
- Conducted construction administration and site supervision for landscape installation projects, ensuring adherence to design intent and quality standards
- Developed technical guidelines for plant propagation, installation procedures, and maintenance protocols for commercial nursery operations
- Provided research assistance for evidence-based landscape design studies and horticultural investigations
- Maintained detailed financial records for project budgets, construction expenditures, and ongoing maintenance contracts
Graduate Teaching Assistant
Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Department of Horticulture
Kumasi, Ghana
09.2015 - 08.2016
- Facilitated design studio tutorials and computer-aided design instruction for second and third-year undergraduate students
- Mentored students in landscape design fundamentals, graphic communication, and digital design technologies
- Assisted faculty in supervising senior capstone research projects and thesis development
- Produced landscape design drawings and specifications for departmental campus improvement initiatives
Landscape Design Intern
Department of Parks and Gardens
Takoradi, Ghana
05.2014 - 07.2014
- Supervised field installation crews on municipal landscape projects including the Anagye Highway Beautification Project
- Prepared residential landscape design plans and planting specifications
- Managed nursery propagation operations for municipal planting stock
Education
Master of Science - Landscape Architecture
Iowa State University
Ames, IA05-2026
Bachelor of Science - Landscape Design and Management
Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology
Kumasi, Ghana06-2015
Skills
- Design & Visualization: AutoCAD, Revit, Rhino 3D, SketchUp, Lumion, Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Lightroom)
- GIS & Data Analysis: ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Dashboard, ArcGIS Online, Story Maps, Tableau
- Sustainable Design
- Plant Selection Expertise
- Client Relationship Building
- Remote Sensing
- Site Analysis
- Project Management
- Technical Documentation: Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Teams)
Accomplishments
Therapeutic Healing Garden | Central Bank of Ghana Hospital, Accra, Ghana (2016-2018).
Project Designer & Installation Manager
Designed and installed a comprehensive therapeutic healing garden for an ultra-modern healthcare facility in Ghana's capital city. The project integrated restorative landscape principles with cultural design elements to create calming, nature-immersive spaces that support patient wellbeing and recovery.
Indoor Air Quality Research | KNUST Research Initiative (2019-2021).
Research Associate
Conducted applied research investigating the relationship between interior plantscaping, building materials, spatial design, and indoor air quality outcomes. Analyzed user experience data to assess health and wellness impacts of biophilic design
interventions.
Royal Cultural Garden | Palace of Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin, Kyebi, Ghana (2021).
Collaborative Designer
Led user-centered design research and development of a culturally significant royal garden reflecting the heritage and traditions of the Kyebi community. Collaborated with interdisciplinary team from KNUST to integrate indigenous design principles with contemporary landscape architecture practices.
Certification
- Meta Digital Marketing Certificate
- PEAP Mentorship Program Certificate
- Second Place, Computer-Aided Design Competition, KNUST, Kumasi, Ghana
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
ADDITIONAL QUALIFICATIONS
- Fluent in English (written and verbal communication)
- Advanced graphic communication and presentation skills
- Proficient in technical illustration and design visualization
- Good driving skill and clear record
Meta Digital Marketing Certificate and PEAP Mentorship Program Certificate
Certified in Digital Marketing by Meta, with demonstrated expertise in online marketing strategies and digital tools. Additionally holds a PEAP Mentorship Certificate in Entrepreneurship, reflecting a solid foundation in business development, innovation, and entrepreneurial leadership
Interests
I do not require H1B or any other form of employer sponsorship I currently hold F-1 status with a valid 3-year STEM OPT work authorization which permits me to work immediately upon hire without any sponsorship obligation from your organization
Furthermore, I am submitting my application for permanent residency through the EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) category, which is employer-independent and does not require company sponsorship This ensures long-term work authorization stability and my commitment to building a sustained career in the United States
Timeline
Landscape Management Intern
Iowa State University, Department of Facility Planning and Management
05.2025 - 08.2025
Landscape Management Intern
Iowa State University, Department of Facility Planning and Management
05.2024 - 08.2024
Landscape Operations Manager
Fides Property Limited
04.2022 - 08.2023
Landscape Designer
Hortus Landscape Service
11.2016 - 12.2021
Graduate Teaching Assistant
Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Department of Horticulture
09.2015 - 08.2016
Landscape Design Intern
Department of Parks and Gardens
05.2014 - 07.2014
Bachelor of Science - Landscape Design and Management
Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology
Master of Science - Landscape Architecture
Iowa State University