Regular Members of the Year

Willie Valdez Named 2025 Member of the Year

The California Landscape Contractors Association named Willie Valdez its 2025 Regular Member of the Year, honoring his leadership and dedication.

The award, which is given annually to a contractor member who is involved with a significant project or accomplishment during the current year, was presented during the association’s annual Leadership Conference, which has held in Santa Ana January 20-21, 2026.

Willie is currently serving his second year as co-chair of the Chapter Presidents Council, and is also extremely active in his chapter.

“Willie exemplifies the heart, dedication and leadership that defines the California Landscape Contractors Association,” 2024 Member of the Year Ana Cooper said while presenting the award. “Always willing to help and mentor, he consistently uplifts those around them — sharing knowledge, offering guidance and inspiring others to grow within the industry.”

He spearheaded his chapter’s installation of a beautiful, water-wise native landscape around the new learning center building at the Lakeside Conservancy. By coordinating with multiple companies and vendors, he brought together a diverse team to create a sustainable environment that will serve the community for years to come. As one nominator noted, “his creativity and compassion were evident from planning to installation, and the final result reflects their ability to turn vision into reality in a meaningful, environmentally responsible way.”

CLCA Regular Members of the Year