Meet Ken: Site Structures’ Head Maintenance Foreman
Ken Trulock doesn’t really work with that baby rake, but he decided to wield it as a trident for this photo to be more like his wife’s favorite superhero, Aquaman Jason Momoa.
If Site Structures has done any kind of maintenance work on your home in the past dozen years, you've probably met lawn hero Ken Trulock.
Ken is Site's longest-standing maintenance team member. As head foreman — and most knowledgeable maintenance crew leader — his expertise ranges from lawn maintenance and restoration to pruning, brush cutting, and invasive plant removal. And he knows how to use every piece of equipment we own! (He also designs fabulous seasonal decorations.) Now that he's entering his 14th season with Site, Ken also recently started helping Site’s marketing team.
Whether you've met Ken at your property or not, there's always more to learn about the mighty but modest Navy veteran, so get to know Ken a bit more with this little Q&A...
What is your role/expertise at Site Structures Landscape?
Ken Trulock: I’ve worked at Site Structures for a little more than 10 years. While working in the golf industry, I had worked a few winters for [Site Structures CEO] Charlie [Bourdages] taking care of Springbrook condominiums. Eventually I left the golf industry to take care of 10 mow accounts for Site Structures.
How long have you been in the green industry and why did you decide to enter this field?
Ken: I’ve been in the green industry for 20 years. My passion for golf, golf course maintenance, and construction got me into the green industry.
Do you have formal education or certifications or are you self-taught?
Ken: I have a two-year advanced certificate in Turf Grass Science from Penn State. I’ve learned a lot since I started here at Site Structures. I’ve had the great opportunity to work with some fabulous people over the years, including great mentors.
What do you like most about the landscape industry?
Ken: I enjoy working outside.
Describe one of your favorite projects.
Ken: It’s hard to name just one there’s been so many projects over the years that I’ve been involved in that have stood the test of time.
What is the craziest thing that has happened to you while landscaping?
Ken: The craziest thing that happened to me landscaping would be watching the wheel come off my trailer while driving and then having to chase that runaway wheel and run it over before it caused any damage. While working at the golf course one morning, a small airplane made an emergency landing on the golf course, miraculously missing trees and golfers.
What is the #1 skill you’ve learned working at Site Structures, the one you’re most proud of?
Ken: Patience. Hopefully someday I’ll be as good at it as Charlie is.
How would you describe Site Structures in 3 words?
Ken: Teamwork, fun, professional.
What is the best thing about working for Site Structures?
Ken: I enjoy coming to work every morning, that’s the best thing about working for Site Structures -- it’s priceless! Also, over the years I’ve had clients that ask for me by name and that means a lot to me.
If you could go back to the day you first started and tell yourself something about the time you’d end up spending here, what would you say?
Ken: Hearing protection!! Use it!!
Where do you see Site Structures 5 years from now, and are you still working here? If so, in the same job or do you envision something else?
Ken: I’m not sure where I will be in five years, it’s hard to say. I enjoy coming to work every day, that’s what’s important.
When you are not at work, how do you like to spend your time?
Ken: When I’m not working I enjoy spending time with my family camping, fishing, and gardening.
If you could have any special power, what would it be? Or if you could be a superhero, who would you be?
Ken: Well, I’ve always been a fan of Mighty Mouse and his theme song, “Here I come to save the day!!”
Do you have any pets? What are their names?
Ken: I have three cats, their names are Sagwa “sag bag,” Truffle, and Tiger.
Stay tuned for more interviews with Site Structures’ employees! And if you missed our Meet Charlie video with Site owner Charlie Bourdages, check it out at our YouTube channel.