Nina Paterno, ASLA, GRP, Landscape Architect, earns the designation of Accredited Green Roof Professional (GRP) from Green Roofs for Healthy Cities and Jason Sereno, Landscape Designer, becomes an International Society of Arboriculture Certified Arborist

May 2010: VIKA, Inc. is pleased to announce the successful certification and professional achievements of two of its employees.

Nina Paterno, ASLA, GRP, Landscape Architect, recently received the designation of Accredited Green Roof Professional (GRP) from the industry association, Green Roofs for Healthy Cities. In order to earn GRP accreditation, Nina achieved specific knowledge level of green roof design, project management, installation and maintenance. This professional designation signifies that a design professional understands the different options for green roof design and implementation and can maximize the benefits of green roofs during the design process. In addition, GRPs understand the major challenges surrounding the implementation of green roofs and the best practices associated with design, management, installation and maintenance

Jason Sereno, Project Landscape Designer, recently received the designation of an International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Arborist. To earn this certification, an individual must have a minimum of three years experience in an aspect of tree care and have passed an extensive exam covering all facets of arboriculture developed by an international panel of experts. This certification was developed for professional arborists by the ISA to provide the public and those in government with a means to identify professionals who have demonstrated, through a professionally developed exam and education program, their thorough knowledge of tree care practices and as an educational program that improves the technical competency of personnel in the tree care industry.

“We challenge our staff to become multi-faceted in their expertise. I congratulate each of them on their professional accomplishments,” said Charles A. Irish, Jr., PE, Prof. LS, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer.