Name: Nick Paoli
Major(s): Horticulture
Graduation year: 2018
Current job title and company/organization: Chief culture officer, RJ Lawn & Landscape
What moment or experience at Iowa State most shaped your career path?
My entire Iowa State experience shaped my career path. I began in the College of Design but discovered my true passion after a pivotal meeting with Barb Clawson, which led me to transfer to the Department of Horticulture. There, I found a perfect blend of plants, design and the horticulture industry. The guidance of dedicated professors, collaboration with peers and exposure to industry professionals gave me the confidence and clarity to pursue this field. I’m deeply grateful to Iowa State for providing the foundation that led me to where I am today.
How did your involvement in clubs, internships or research opportunities at Iowa State prepare you for your current role?
Serving as president of the ISU Landscape Club and landscape chair for the ISU Horticulture Club gave me invaluable hands-on experience. Through community projects and service initiatives, I learned how to collaborate effectively and engage with various groups - skills that translate directly to real-world customer and community interactions. These leadership roles also reignited my passion for teaching horticultural principles, which continues to shape my career. Today, I facilitate training at RJ Lawn & Landscape and teach horticulture and leadership to community organizations, high school students and Des Moines Area Community College classes. I’m grateful to Iowa State for providing these opportunities that prepared me to lead and educate in my current role.
What’s one challenge you’ve faced in your education or career, and how did you overcome it?
One of my greatest challenges was transitioning from a design and production role to a personnel-focused position. When I stepped into a recruiting role at RJ Lawn & Landscape, I had no prior experience in recruiting, team management or employee development. However, the skills I gained at Iowa State through classroom instruction and leadership in student organizations gave me the confidence and foundational knowledge to succeed. I relied on my passion for the horticulture industry, the technical expertise I developed at Iowa State, and my desire to teach others to navigate this career shift. Today, as chief culture officer, I oversee recruiting, training and development, personnel management, and company culture. I’m grateful to Iowa State for equipping me with the tools to embrace this challenge and grow into a leadership role.
Fill in the blank and provide a brief explanation: “I wouldn’t be where I am today without ______.”
I wouldn’t be where I am today without my support system. My family, friends and professors have always been there to lift me up during challenging times, offer guidance and encourage me throughout my career development. I am deeply grateful for the relationships I built at Iowa State and beyond, as they have been instrumental in shaping both my personal and professional journey.
Fill in the blank: “The best piece of advice I received in college was _________, and here’s why it stuck with me: _________.”
The best piece of advice I received in college was to do what you love and never give up on it. This stuck with me because before college, I assumed you chose a major, stayed with it and lived your life even if it didn’t make you happy. At Iowa State, I discovered my passion for horticulture, and thanks to the encouragement of my professors and peers, I was able to pursue a career that I truly enjoy every day.