Christopher Rodrigues - Landscape Architectural Technologist

After graduation, what was the first position you had? How did that shape where you are now as a Landscape Architectural Technologist?

I started my career as a Junior Landscape Architectural Technologist with a private Landscape Architecture company in Edmonton. I was involved in compiling construction drawings, tender documents, and the implementation of projects varying in type and size. Having this varied experience and working under senior LAs at the beginning of my career has given me broader perspective of what I can do and achieve as an LAT.

What is something that surprised you at the start of your career? or What is something that surprises you about being a Landscape Architectural Technologist?

The first thing that surprised me, and continues to do so to this day, is how broad our industry is in scope and scale. Landscape professionals are, and in most cases should be, involved in projects throughout the design and implementation phases in order to provide our subject matter expertise.

The second thing that surprised me was how little the general public knows about Landscape Architecture and what LAs and LATs are capable of. This is slowly changing and I personally take it upon myself to explain to people who we are and what we do when they ask what Landscape Architecture is.

What are some of your roles and responsibilities?

Through my career I have been responsible for numerous aspects of projects. I have been involved with public consultation, concept drawings, preparation of tender drawings, documents, and specifications, construction drawings, landscape inspections, record drawings, and much more. I have constantly strived to push the envelope on what LATs can get involved in.

What does a typical day look like for you?

My days vary depending on the deliverables needing to be completed. Some days I draft all day, others I'm involved in planning meetings, and sometimes I'm out on site all day. I enjoy variety and try to switch it up as much as I can.

What skills do you feel are important to have as a Landscape Architectural Technologist?

Critical thinking, an understanding of multiple CAD programs, being able take and give constructive criticism, plant knowledge, and understanding that the industry is forever changing so it is important to keep an open mind.

What are you passionate about as a Landscape Architectural Technologist?

Personally I'm a plant person, my passion lies with all things trees, shrubs, perennials, soils, and anything organic. I take personal satisfaction on researching new plant varieties and finding the right plant for the right place.

Tell us about some of the exciting projects you have been a part of.

River Valley Alliance shared use trails within the North Saskatchewan River Valley, Jasper Avenue streetscape revitalization, low impact developments such as SWMFs, dry ponds, and projects with soil cell installations, and park designs to name a few. I'm most proud of working in natural areas and providing an ecological way for citizens to access them.

Describe something that you have found challenging as a LAT?. How did you overcome this?

At the beginning of my career I found it challenging sometimes to provide support for why I chose to do something either on a construction drawing or on site. Over the years I have overcome this by asking questions, doing my own research, and always remembering that nothing is arbitrary; every line on a paper or decision made in the field has a reason, reaction, and consequence

What advice would you give a new Landscape Architectural Technologist?

Ask questions, never be afraid to ask questions, there is no such thing as asking a bad question, and most importantly ask questions!

What are your future goals?

To be an advocate for the profession.
To continue my research and education within this industry.
And to continue to enjoy and experience everything this industry has to offer.