Inspiring Alumni | Ben Mercer '95

“I ATTRIBUTE MY SUCCESS TO A LOT OF LUCK AND NEVER WALKING AWAY UNTIL THE JOB IS DONE RIGHT.  NOT BEING SATISFIED WITH LESS THAN MY BEST EFFORT WAS INSTILLED IN ME AT STS.”

While he enjoyed his chosen profession, he instinctively felt that something was missing. “I got an office job for one year and realized that working indoors was not the future for me. I returned to landscape construction and decided to give it another shot.”

Ben started Landform Inc., where he creates public spaces that allow residents to embrace the joy and beauty of the outdoors. He’s proud to have built it from the ground up and admits that he learned as he went. “I attribute my success to a lot of luck and never walking away until the job is done right. Not being satisfied with less than my best effort was instilled in me at STS.”  He says that the School’s Outdoor Education Program played a huge role in cultivating his love of the natural environment, and he is forever cultivating his love of the natural environment, and he is forever grateful for the writing and speaking skills gained at STS for preparing him to be a business owner. “The essay composition skills practiced in the classroom served me very well through University, and I continue to rely on them to this day.”

“I spent most of my academic career avoiding group projects wherever possible,” he adds. “As it turns out, running a business is one big group project. Successful collaboration starts with great communication, whether with my staff, vendors, clients, subcontractors, or city inspectors. Writing clearly, concisely, and logically is an enormous strength in any industry.”

He recalls his education extending far beyond the classroom, including in the relationships he formed with other students in the School. “I grew up in rural Alberta, and my time at STS allowed me to meet extraordinary people.  Learning with peers from different cultural backgrounds gave me a broader perspective and enriched my life.”

A project of which Ben’s most proud is the Bow River Pathway between 10th Street and the Peace Bridge to Eau Claire. It was one of Landform’s most extensive endeavours, with over 1,600 square metres of paving stone and a kilometre of rock walls. “It was so much work, but I love walking it and watching people enjoy it.”

He also feels fortunate to have brought his work home to the School campus, where he created the beautiful landscaping around Aspen Lodge.

“It was really significant to return to STS. It felt meaningful to be back there. Aspen Lodge is a spectacular space.”

Ben would love to share his experiences with STS students who may be thinking of a career outside of traditional academia. “When I think back on STS, from where I was to where I am today, it wasn’t something I ever saw anyone else do. I never got the opportunity to hear about what it’s like to build a business from the ground up.”

When asked what advice he would impart to students today, “Take the time to be clear on the direction you choose to take in life,” he continues, “Whichever path you choose, you will get there, but be sure it’s where you want to go.”

                                                                                Published in the 2023 edition of Optimum Magazine.