Justin Bates

Justin Bates is the CEO of Bates Landscaping, a fast-growing landscape contractor based in the Northeast that specializes in HOA and community work, snow operations, and high-end design-build projects. With a mission to be the best company to work with and for, Justin has scaled Bates from a family-run operation to a multimillion-dollar business built on strong systems, a people-first culture, and relentless focus on client experience. Beyond landscaping, he's passionate about using AI and lean processes to cut down on human error, increase efficiency, and build a business that creates long-term opportunities for both his team and his clients.

Melissa Blake

Melissa is the Business Developer at Bates Landscaping, where she focuses on commercial snow removal and landscape maintenance for HOAs, senior living communities, and high-end apartments. She's helped Bates earn (2) NALP Awards of Excellence, grow sales year after year, and build a standout brand in a crowded market.

Melissa also teaches as an adjunct professor at Williamson Trade School, sharing her industry know-how with future landscape leaders. Known for her quick wit, fast pace, and creative approach, she's the kind of person people always remember — usually because she makes them laugh while solving their toughest problems. And she likes Dad jokes 🙂