Tracy Bertog, Founder
Tracy started Bertog Landscape Co. in April of 1974 with his pick up truck and a lawn mower. Tracy began his love for landscaping while growing his business and attending school for horticulture. He loves the mechanics of the business and enjoys relationship building with new and long time clients. Loyalty is big for Tracy and it shows in his team, his work ethic and his company. Tracy's company mantra: One Team. One Goal.
Robert Bertog, CLP, CSP, President
Bob began his days at Bertog working through his summer college breaks from Miami University, Oxford Ohio. He graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance and earned an Associate’s Degree in Investment Economics and Analysis. Bob has worn every hat possible at Bertog, from mowing to purchasing, from sales to accounting, from turfgrass to drainage - whatever your needs, Bob has the answer. Keepin' it green!
Steve Bertog, Lighting & Irrigation Director
When it comes to fixing things, Steve Bertog has the mindset to get it done. Steve manages Bertog's lighting and irrigation divisions and is ready at any given moment to assist a customer in need. Steve’s creative eye, allows him to transform a dark backyard into a beautifully lit space to enjoy all year long. He has been working in the landscaping industry along side of his brothers his entire life. He was even known to have “excused” absences from high school in the spring so he could get outside and get the job done.
Stephen Carlin, General Manager/Landscape Designer
Stephen has a real passion for the landscape industry and residential design/build. Stephen loves the process of working with a homeowner from conceptualization to implementation. He strives to achieve the requests of each client while presenting unique designs. His eye for design is as good as his aptitude for business. He strives for every department at Bertog to be the very best.
Armando Arroyo, Maintenance Supervisor
Armando started his career with Bertog as a laborer back in March of 2004, and very quickly displayed leadership qualities that he uses today in his role as a maintenance supervisor. Armando works closely with Jose Rodriguez with account supervision and helps manage our crews in the field. Armando is also an account supervisor during snow events.
Jeff Bell, Account Advisor/Landscape Architect
Jeff has an exceptional understanding of unique sites and situations and how to design landscapes that can be both beautiful and sustainable. His interest in plants and horticulture began at an early age, during weekly family trips to his grandparents' home. That early interest led to a successful career in horticulture and landscape architecture. Jeff's extensive experience includes account management, landscape design, maintenance, construction for residential and commercial projects, park districts and the Lake County Government.
Paul Collins, Information Technology Manager
Paul has been part of the Bertog family since 2005. He assisted with building and maintaining our company's technology infrastructure. Paul has extensive experience in workstations, networking, security and applications support and excels at their support and alignment with Bertog's business needs. In other words he keeps our computers and technology updated and running smoothly so we can keep our focus on beautifying our client's outdoor spaces.
Jose Escobedo, Fleet Manager
Jose is not afraid of getting dirty. He oversees the maintenance and repairs of our entire fleet and supervises our mechanics. Jose is constantly utilizing his problem solving skills, working on fleet transmissions, lawn machinery or snow equipment. He joined our team in 2008 and brings a great deal of experience in the automotive industry. He is A.S.E. (Automotive Service Excellence) Certified and I.M.A.L.C.A. (International Mobile Air Conditioning Association) Certified. Jose received his Associate’s Degree from Oakton Community College, is EPA certified and has earned numerous awards for advanced training. Jose helps Bertog run smoothly.
Cheryl Mart, Accountant
Cheryl loves numbers as much as she loves a good restaurant. She is Bertog's in house accountant and has over 30 years of crunching numbers in various corporate industries. She has an eye for details, and is result driven. Cheryl is a die hard Chicago sports fan and follows our teams with as much passion as she balances a good P&L sheet.
Jovanni Martinez, Construction Manager
Jovanni has a contagious smile and a positive "Can Do" attitude. He started with the company in June of 2000 as a laborer, then to foreman and now Construction Manager, overseeing every detail to every job. Jovanni has become one of our most accomplished leaders in the field due to his attention to detail and strong work ethic. Jovanni is a true team player and enjoys interacting and training the crews in the field. His strong character and dedication to quality work have helped beautify landscapes up and down the north shore.
Robert Milani, Senior Landscape Architect
Robert is passionate about mother nature. Nothing satisfies him more than to envision and create a beautiful space for his clients. Robert has over 30 years of landscape architecture experience and is responsible for directing innovative and creative design solutions while meeting his client's objectives. He also enjoys pursuing new business development relating to Bertog's goals while maintaining his status as a "Green Industry" leader. Robert has been known to rescue a racoon or two and other types of wildlife when he finds an animal in distress.
Lisa Pollman, Landscape Architect
Lisa loves to create outdoor visions for her clients - from concept to completion. Lisa is a graduate of The Ohio State University, where she majored in landscape architecture. Her career includes work with noted Chicago-area landscape firms and we're honored to have her join our team. She was drawn to Bertog and our clients, because of our "great business model, steadfast management and support, and our team's excitement, creativity and quality work."
Jose Rodriguez, Maintenance Manager
You may see Jose walking around inspecting your property. Jose has been with Bertog perhaps the longest, beginning his career as a laborer in 1999. He has worked his way up the ranks and is the Maintenance Manager overseeing and scheduling multiple maintenance crews and spray technicians. Jose also assists with the interviewing and hiring of our team members for the maintenance crews and coordinating personnel for our snow program. Say hi to Jose next time you see him out and about and ask him about his Harley!
Greg Roos, Purchasing Manager
Sue Ryba, Account Advisor/Marketing Director
Alex Smith, Account Advisor
Alex likes to help his clients maximize their outdoor living spaces. With a 10-year career in the landscape industry, Alex likes to dig right in finding solutions that best fit each unique client. "While looking to grow my career, I was determined to find a company that would help increase my knowledge of landscaping, work as a team and share my love of the industry," he says. "Bertog is the perfect fit!"