Meet Our Team
Owner
Kurt LaButte, Co-founder of Todd's Services, Inc., Est 1979
Kurt has played an integral role in the company's development, growth and continued success since the beginning. Kurt continues to lead as the company President and CEO.
Membership and Affiliations:
Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute (ICPI)
National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP)
Michigan Nurseryman and Landscape Association (MNLA)
Michigan Green Industry Association (MGIA)
Management Team
Sherry LaButte-Birk, Corporate Vice President - at Todd's Services Inc. since 1986
As Vice President, Sherry performs multiple roles including the oversight of all admins, assists clients with our finance programs, accounting and much more. Sherry plays a vital role in day to day operations and is a valuable member of the TSI management team.
Certifications / Accreditations:
Public Relations Department for Domino's Pizza World Headquarters in Ann Arbor, MI.
Real Estate License holder
Dale Carnegie Graduate
Josh Robinson, Director of Sales and Design - at Todd's Services Inc. since 1989
Josh has spent his entire career with Todd's Services. He began employment at 13 as a yard hand, washing trucks and changing oil. At age 18, Josh started his career in sales and began designing at age 22. In 2009, Josh began his role as Director of Sales and Design. Josh is a member of the Certification Committee for the (CGIP) program which is the recognized certification program of the Michigan Nursery and Landscape Association (MNLA).
Certifications / Accreditations:
Certified Green Industry Professional (CGIP)
Member of the CGIP Certification Committee
Michigan Certified Landscape Designer, MNLA
Michigan Certified Landscape Manager, MNLA
Segmental Retaining Wall Certification (SRW, NCMA)
Jeff Walz, Senior Production Manager - at Todd's Services Inc. since 1994
Jeff has over 35 years of industry experience with 23 of those years being with Todd's Services. In his role as Senior Supervisor of Operations, Jeff specializes in all aspects of landscape and hardscape installations. His extensive experience in this industry is a great value to our clients and our team here at TSI.
Certifications / Accreditations:
Interlocking Concrete Pavement Certified (ICPI)
Segmental Retaining Wall Certification (SRW, NCMA)
Doug Murphy, Human Resource Manager - at Todd's Services Inc. since 2002
Doug has numerous roles within the management team that include quality control, wetland delineations, hydrogeolic investigation, draft team oversight and much more. Dougs analytic skillset and education have proven critical at ensuring the highest integrity of our workmanship.
Certifications / Accreditations:
B.S. Hydrogeologist, EMU, Minor in Geology
B.S. Biologist, EMU, Minor in Botany
Environmental Consultant - Previous Senior Staff Hydrogeologist
Corporate Environmental & Regulatory Compliance Specialist
Licensed Residential Builder
Mark Becker, Purchasing and Scheduling Manager - at Todd's Services Inc. since 1995
Mark has been an integral part of Todd's Services for 29 years. In his first four years with the Todd's he was a heavy equipment operator working with landscaping crews. Mark then transitioned out of the field and into the office and currently fills the role of Purchasing and Scheduling Manager. Mark's extensive knowledge of equipment and production has proven to be a valuable asset to TSI and to our management team.
Certifications / Accreditations:
Associate's Degree, Business Management
PMB Certification
Class A CDL Driver
Segmental Retaining Wall Certification (SRW, NCMA)
Kevin Birk, Fleet and Service Dept Manager, Master Plumber - at Todd's Services Inc. since 2004
Kevin is highly skilled in irrigation, plumbing and mechanical. He plays a critical role in the oversight over our sprinkler service department as well as overseeing TSI's in house mechanics. Kevin is well accomplished in his professional field of plumbing and has trained numerous apprentices in his craft. Kevin is as asset to our company, our clients and to the TSI management team.
Certifications / Accreditations:
State of Michigan Licensed Master Plumber
State of Michigan Licensed Plumbing Contractor
State of Michigan Licensed Mechanical Contractor
State of Michigan Licensed Boiler Installer 4B
Bachelor of Plumbing Science-Washtenaw Community College
Associate's in Teaching-Eastern Michigan University
Ed Esch, Quality Assurance Manager - at Todd's Services Inc. since 1995
Ed has 30 years of experience in the landscaping construction industry. In the first 3 years with Todd's, he was a Foreman and operated our hydroseeder. Ed transitioned out of the field to our Design and Sales team for the next 21 years. Ed's experience in installation, design and sales make him a valuable Quality Assurance Manager for our team.
Certifications / Accreditations:
Segmental Retaining Wall Certification (SRW, NCMA)
NDS certified Contractor
Interlocking Concrete and Pavement Institute (ICPI)
Unilock Paver
Wall and Steps Certified Installer
AUSTIN LABUTTE, VP Of Operations - at Todd's Services Inc. since 2011
Certifications / Accreditations:
Segmental Retaining Wall Certification (SRW, NCMA)
Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute (ICPI)
Class A CDL Driver
Advanced Residential Paver Technician (ICPI)
BS in Business Management, Grand Valley State University
Chris Kelly, Career Coach, Project Manager, Field Hiring Manager - at Todd's Services Inc. since 2017
Chris has 19 years of experience as an arborist and horticulturist in the Green Industry. Chris started with Todd's as a Foreman on the landscape production team focusing on softscape projects. In 2020, Chris transitioned to our Career Coach, using his experience and knowledge to help train and mentor incoming employees on a career path to success.
Certifications / Accreditations:
BA in History w/Teaching Cert. in Social Science - Eastern Illinois University
Certified Arborist - International Society of Arborculture
Horticulture Coursework - St. Louis Community College
Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute (ICPI)
Kyle Spencer, Project Manager - At Todd's Services Inc. since 2024
Kyle has 16 years’ experience leading teams and managing at various Costco locations across Michigan, including opening the location in Traverse City. Prior to joining Costco, Kyle spent 10 years in the concrete and landscaping industry in Livingston County. With his extensive experience in labor relations, Kyle transitioned his career toward the HR field in 2022.
In 2023, Kyle returned to his roots and secured an HR Management and Account Manager position with a local landscaping company in Traverse City. Having worked and grown up in Livingston County, Kyle was familiar with Todd’s reputation and was enthusiastic about the expansion opportunity in Traverse City. Kyle is eager to leverage his extensive management experience to contribute to Todd’s Services and assist in launching a successful branch in Traverse City.
Certifications / Accreditations
B.S. Degree in Applied Management – Walsh College School of Business
A.A. Degree in Management – Washtenaw Community College
PHR Certification – HRCI
aPHR Certification - HRCI
HR Management Certification – Cornell University
Construction Management Certification - Washtenaw Community College
Sales and Marketing Certification - Washtenaw Community College
Ryan Cook, Commercial Account Manager - At Todd's Services since 2024
Design and Sales Team
Tom Skover, Design and Sales - at Todd's Services Inc. since 1996
Tom has over 35 years of landscape and design experience and has served 25 of those years with Todd's Services. Tom is an accomplished designer with a skillset that is extremely valuable to our clients and specializes in moderate to large scale projects.
Certifications / Accreditations:
MNLA Merit Award Winning Designer
Segmental Retaining Wall Certification (SRW, NCMA)
Lee Carlson, Design and Sales - at Todd's Services Inc. since 2007
Lee has nearly 35 years of landscape and design experience. He is an expert in landscape design and site planning and has been a leading member of the design and sales team at Todd's Services for the last 11 years. Lee earned the highest annual Rosetta product sales award and is the recipient of both MGIA and MNLA industry awards on projects over $250,000 for environmental improvement and for design / installation.
Certifications / Accreditations:
BS, Horticulture and Landscape Design - MSU
MNLA Merit Award Winning Designer
MGIA Merit Award Winning Designer
Member of MNLA, MGIA and NALP
MSU Alumni Association
Segmental Retaining Wall Certification (SRW, NCMA)
Matt Buhr, Design and Sales - at Todd's Services Inc. since 2013
Before joining Todd's Services, Matthew spent his past years as the lead Landscape Designer for a high-end residential landscape design/build company on the island of Cape Cod Massachusetts. His design capabilities and architectural/construction experience have driven him to design several award-winning residential and commercial landscapes. His ability to create sustainable and exquisite designs are proven to be very sought after by our customers.
Certifications / Accreditations:
B.S. Degree of Architecture - University of Michigan (Ann Arbor)
Segmental Retaining Wall Certification (SRW, NCMA)
MNLA Merit Award Winning Designer
MGIA Merit Award Winning Designer
RYAN DINIUS, Design and Sales - at Todd's Services Inc. since 2018
Ryan started his Landscape career in the year 2000 working extensively with comprehensive landscape, hardscape and construction projects. Highly skilled in all aspects of the industry, his extensive field experience, project management and creative site planning background has provided Ryan the skillset to be a leading designer focusing on multidisciplinary projects of all facets. Ryan genuinely enjoys working with each client to provide a vision and experience that will exceed their expectations.
Certifications / Accreditations:
Master of Science in Urban Planning, Eastern Michigan University
Segmental Retaining Wall Certification (SRW, NCMA)
Certified Concrete Paver Installer (ICPI)
MNLA Merit Award Winning Designer
NALP Awards of Excellence Winning Designer
John Ellis, Commercial Maintenance and Snow Maintenance Sales Manager - at Todd's Services Inc. since 2015
John started maintaining commercial and residential properties in 2009. By 2013, he had worked his way up to managing multiple sites and crews. Not only does he over see the day-to-day operations of our maintenance division, he also bids commercial lawn and snow maintenance programs offered by TSI. John's work ethic, attention to detail and leadership skills make him a great asset.
Collin Tidey, Design and Sales - At Todd's Services Inc. since 2019
Collin started his career in the Landscaping industry in 2014 while finishing his schooling for his degrees. Starting with a local nursery where he learned an extensive amount about Michigan plant material. In 2016 he started work as a designer for a reputable landscape design/build company. There he learned everything from landscape and hardscape designing, to project management and field work. His versatile design skills and plant knowledge are a great asset to TSI.
Certifications / Accreditations:
A.A.S. in Landscape Horticulture
A.S. in Technological Sciences
2 - M.G.I.A. Silver Award Winner for Outstanding Hardscape
Member of the A.H.S. (American Horticulture Society)
Segmented Retaining Wall Certification (SRW, NCMA)
NDS Professional Drainage Contractor Certification
MNLA Merit Award Winning Designer
NALP Awards of Excellence Winning Designer
Trevor Schmitt, Design and Sales - At Todd's Services Inc. since 2020
Trevor is a licensed Landscape Architect in the State of Michigan with a foundation of hands-on construction experience. Over the course of his career, Trevor has researched, designed, and implemented a variety of projects including public parks, greenways, regional Master Plans, and all aspects pertaining to residential properties. Combining a lifetime of creative pursuits in art and design with his love for the outdoors, Trevor strives to focus his talents towards the creation of outdoor spaces that harmonize the built and natural environments, serve the function of the site, and promote sustainable environmental standards.
Certifications/Accreditations:
B.S. Landscape Architecture: Ball State University
Licensed Landscape Architect, Michigan
NDS Professional Drainage Contractor Certification
James Kanka, Design and Sales - At Todd's Services Inc. since 2020
James specializes in creating beautiful outdoors spaces that both incorporate native plants and ecological techniques to bring your most creative ideas to the light of day. His previous experience designing Metal and Glass engineered architecture allows for intricate features to accent the natural designs. He loves working with you to bring your dream landscaping into reality.
Certifications / Accreditations:
B.S. Scientific & Technical Communication, Michigan Tech
Minor in German and Global Business, Michigan Tech
NDS Professional Drainage Contractor Certification
Segmental Retaining Wall Certification (SRW, NCMA)
Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute (ICPI)
Greg Cagney, Design and Sales - At Todd's Services Inc. since 2021
Greg first started his career in landscaping constructing projects and working his way up to sales. Now with over 23 years of experience in the industry he has a vast knowledge of experience in building, sales and design. Prior to joining Todd’s, Greg was a project manager for a landscape company where he focused on the sales and design of beautiful outdoor spaces for his customers. He specializes in both large- and small-scale designs to fit his client’s needs. He loves to build relationships with his clients and create outdoor spaces that are functional for them that they will enjoy for years to come.
Certifications / Accreditations:
Certified Concrete Paver Installer (ICPI Certified)
Concrete Paver Sales Technician (ICPI Certified)
Segmental Retaining Wall Certification (SRW, NCMA)
Advanced Snow Manager (ASM Certified)
NDS Professional Drainage Contractor Certification
Master Rain Gardner
Patrick Duffy, Design and Sales - At Todd's Services Inc. since 2021
Before joining Todd's Services, Patrick spent years as a natural resource manager and restoration specialist. Through this experience, Patrick takes pride in working with homeowners to provide creative designs that balance functionality with aesthetics. He focuses on erosion and drainage issues with which native plants are particularly useful.
Certifications / Accreditations:
B.S. Education - University of Michigan (Ann Arbor)
B.S. Environmental Science - University of Michigan (Ann Arbor)
M.S. Forestry – Purdue University
Michigan Certified Landscape Designer, CGIP
Segmental Retaining Wall Certification (SRW, NCMA)
NDS Professional Drainage Contractor Certification
Certified Natural Shoreline Practitioner
DREW GUCCIARDO, Design and Sales - AT Todd's Services Inc. SINCE 2016
Drew started his career in landscaping on the production team for 7 years at TSI. In those seven years, he has honed his skills in all aspects of hardscaping, landscape design, and installation. Drew is passionate about creating beautiful outdoor spaces where attention to detail is paramount. He transitioned to the sales department at TSI where he is applying those skills and passion to deliver creative and innovative projects for TSI customers.
Certifications / Accreditations:
NDS Professional Drainage Contractor Certification
Certified Concrete Paver Installed (ICPI)
Class A CDL Driver
Chris Ewing, Design and Sales - At Todd's Services Inc. Since 2023
Chris has been in the Green Industry since 2005. He joined the Todd's Services team in 2023. From 2005 to 2018 Chris and his wife owned and operated Ewing Garden Center and Landscaping in Nashville, Mi. From 2018 to 2022 Chris was the General Manager for Mackinac Landscapes on Mackinac Island. He has been married to his best friend, Becky, since 2005 and they have a son, Cedar. Working in the green industry has always been a passion of Chris'. To beautify a home on the outside to reflect what beauty is on the inside.
Certifications / Accreditations:
NDS Professional Drainage Contractor Certification
Master Gardener Certification, MSU
Blueprint Reading Certification
Andrew Parin, Design and Sales - At Todd's Services Inc. since 2024
Andrew began his career in the Landscape industry in 2005 and is a licensed Landscape Architect in the State of Michigan. Prior to joining Todd's Services, Andrew was a Partner at a nationally recognized landscape architecture firm in Michigan. His hands-on approach, attention to detail and clear understanding of both design and construction process have helped him guide many technically challenging projects throughout his career in a variety of development sectors. Andrew has a professional drive to deliver projects that offer long term, immeasurable value to both their users and owners.
Certifications / Accreditations:
Bachelors of Science in Landscape Architecture, Purdue University, 2005
Licensed Landscape Architect; Michigan, Kansas
ASLA Honor Award Recipient
ASLA Merit Award Recipient
Karen Russcher, Design and Sales - At Todd's Services Inc. since 2024
Since 2019 Karen has been designing high-end residential landscapes in California,South Western Michigan and Northern Michigan. Karen is a skilled, self-motivated Landscape Architect. Her experience spans all aspects of the profession, including Master Planning, Site Design, Project Management, and Construction Administration. She worked in North Carolina on large scale Master Planning, K-12 schools and University Campus design. After moving to California, Karen specialized in Resort, Winery, and Bed & Breakfast Inn design, Office and Institutional Design, and the design of many High-End Residences in the Bay Area of San Francisco. She returned to NorthCarolina to teach at the University of North Carolina Charlotte, and then moved back to her home state of Michigan to share her diverse knowledge at Michigan State University as an Instructor/Specialist.
Karen is a licensed Landscape Architect in Michigan, California, North Carolina, and South Carolina. Karen is an avid hiker and leads hiking groups teaching people about local natural systems, flora, and fauna. Her passion for teaching design and her appreciation for our natural resources have helped to define creative solutions that integrate with the environment.
Certifications / Accreditations:
BS of Landscape Architecture - University of Kentucky
Master of Landscape Architecture degree - Harvard University
Matt Schneider, design and sales - At Todd’s Services inc. since 2024
Matt worked on a landscaping crew while attending Miami University. After 25 years in software sales and management at IBM, Microsoft, and start-ups, Matt is pursuing a career in landscape design and studying for CGIP accreditation. His experience includes outdoor kitchens, patios, and decks.
Certifications / Accreditations:
MBA from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire.
Production Managers
Frank Meza, Supervisor of Production - at Todd's Services Inc. since 2007
Frank has is a true expert at both hardscapes and softscape projects. He started his landscape career at Todd's Services and has grown to be a valuable asset to our customers and our company. Frank is now overseeing projects while mentoring others to gain his skills set.
Certifications / Accreditations:
Segmental Retaining Wall Certification (SRW, NCMA)
Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute (ICPI)
Dan Thompson, Supervisor of Production - at Todd's Services Inc. since 2019
Dan has over 25 years of experience, and is very knowledgeable in all aspects of horticulture and the green industry. Dan is also highly experienced in the areas of irrigation plumbing and outdoor lighting. His personal skills and extensive experience in this industry is a great value to our clients and TSI. His attention to quality ensures integrity and sustainability to our installations.
Certifications / Accreditations:
B.S. Horticulture – Michigan State University
ISA Certified Arborist
Certified Commercial Pesticide Applicator (3B)
I.C.P.I Certified, Interlocking Concrete Paver Institute
CDL A
Fransisco Hernandez, Site Manager - at Todd's Services Inc. since 1999
Fransisco is an equipment and installation expert with extensive experience in all landscape construction. There is no project too difficult for this talented site manager. We are grateful to have him on our TSI team as are each of the customers that work with him. Many of Fransisco's projects have become award winning in multiple landscape associations.
MIKAL LABUTTE, Production Manager - at Todd's Services Inc. since 2015
Certifications / Accreditations:
Segmental Retaining Wall Certification (SRW, NCMA)
Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute (ICPI)
Class A CDL Driver
Advanced Residential Paver Technician (P.I.C.P)
OSHA 30 Certified
NDS Professional Drainage Contractor Certification
Dale Carnegie Graduate
CHRIS O’DELL, Production Manager - at Todd's Services Inc. since 2017
Chris has been in the landscaping industry since 2002. Chris has good knowledge of all areas of the landscape construction process both in the field and in design. Chris is committed to this industry and is constantly striving to be on the cutting edge of what is new and sustainable.
Certifications / Accreditations:
Advanced Residential Paver Technician (ICPI)
Advanced Residential SRW Technician (NCMA)
Kevin Wilcox, Supervisor of Production - At Todd's Services Inc. since 2017
Certifications / Accreditations:
Segmental Retaining Wall Certification (SRW, NCMA)
Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute (ICPI)
Class A CDL Driver
Keegan LaButte, Supervisor of Production - At Todd's Services Inc. since 2019
Certifications / Accreditations:
OSHA 30 Certified
Class "A" CDL
Dan Bloch, Commercial Maintenance Supervisor - At Todd's Services INC. since 2019
Jimmy Sikkila, Commercial Maintenance Supervisor - At Todd's Services Inc. since 2017
Josh Taylor, Supervisor of Production - At Todd's Service's Inc. Since 2019
Certifications / Accreditations:
OSHA 30 Certified
Segmental Retaining Wall Certification (SRW, NCMA)
Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute (ICPI)
Class A CDL Driver
NDS Professional Drainage Contractor Certification
Advanced Residential Paver Technician (P.I.C.P)
Administrative Department
Julie Saladino, Administrative Assistant - at Todd's Services Inc. since 1997
Christine Goralski, Administrative Assistant - at Todd's Services Inc. since 1998
Heidi KOVARIK, Administrative Assistant - at Todd's Services Inc. since 1997
Crystal Holcomb, Administrative Assistant - at Todd's Services Inc. since 2014
Gary Synan, Job Cost Analyst - at Todd's Services Inc. since 2013
Sydney LaButte - Administrative Assistant - At Todd's Services Inc. since 2022
Drafting Department
Blake Andera, Landscape Draftsman - at Todd's Services Inc. since 2020
Blake is a born and raised Iowa native. He really appreciates the slow pace and peaceful nature of rural America. He has been in the landscaping industry for 7 years now and has worked on a wide range of projects by scales and scopes of work. With a wealth of knowledge and experience, the client is sure to get a great product. He has a strong passion for plants and high quality design.
Certifications / Accreditations:
B.S. Landscape Architecture from Iowa State University
Alex ANDERA, LANDSCAPE DRAFTSMAN - AT Todd's Services Inc. SINCE 2020
Alex, a proud Iowa native, thrives in the friendly atmosphere and relaxed pace of rural America. He brings his passion for creating beautiful and functional landscapes to the design team. Alex uses his design skills to craft immersive visualizations that bring homeowners' dream landscapes to life. He finds immense satisfaction in collaborating with the team to transform outdoor spaces into stunning additions that enhance curb appeal and enjoyment for homeowners.
