top of page

Irrigation, Hustle, and Opportunity: How 27-Year-Old Sean Fisher Is Making Waves in Charlotte’s Booming Irrigation Industry

  • info
  • 13 minutes ago
  • 3 min read

By Sam Ettaro | Producer, Put Tools in Schools


In a city known for its relentless growth and vibrant green neighborhoods, Charlotte native Sean Fisher is planting more than grass—he’s planting a future. At just 27, Sean owns and operates Turf Care Irrigation, an outdoor services company that specializes in irrigation systems, landscape lighting, and drainage. And he’s not just thriving—he’s recruiting the next generation to get their hands dirty, too.

"I love working for myself," Sean says with a grin. “There’s nothing better.”

Raised in Charlotte and a graduate of a local business school with a focus in entrepreneurship, Sean didn’t fall far from the family tree. His father started Turf Care as a landscaping service back in the 1980s, cutting lawns around the Queen City. Sean grew up immersed in the trades, learning the ropes—sometimes literally on the end of a shovel. When a retiring mentor offered to pass down his loyal client base a few years ago, Sean saw the chance to start his own branch of the business. He took it—and ran with it.

An Industry Overflowing With Opportunity

Sean’s story is more than inspirational—it’s practical. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in landscaping and groundskeeping is projected to grow steadily, with over 173,000 new jobs expected by 2032. Irrigation, in particular, is gaining ground as municipalities like Charlotte Water push for smarter water management and erosion control in a rapidly urbanizing region.

In fact, North Carolina is ranked among the top 10 states for landscaping and irrigation services, with Charlotte leading the charge thanks to its booming housing market and sprawling suburban developments. Nearly every home in South Charlotte, Sean notes, has an irrigation system. That means opportunities—not just jobs, but careers.

“It’s not just about sprinkler heads,” Sean explains. “It’s about water conservation, drainage, electrical systems, and customer service. It’s a science and an art.”

ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW VIDEO:

Degree/No Degree? No Problem.

Despite having a business degree, Sean insists a college diploma isn’t a prerequisite for success in the trades. “You don’t need anything to get started. No license, no certifications—just a willingness to work,” he says. “Find a company, show up with a good attitude, and they’ll teach you. I’d teach you.”

That sentiment reflects a wider industry truth. Irrigation technician certifications, such as the City Certified Irrigation Technician (CCIT) license in North Carolina, can often be earned in under a week. They're affordable, accessible, and boost employability from day one.

“These are not four-year commitments,” says Sean. “They’re one-week foundations that can double your worth in the job market.”

Tools, Mud, and Real Success

What tools does a young business owner swear by? “A shovel. That’s your best friend,” he laughs. “I own the company, but I still bounce on a shovel. And a good shower—trust me, you’ll need one.”


Sean is quick to dispel myths that trades are for those without options. “This career didn’t fall into my lap. I chose it. And I love it,” he says.


He’s now joining efforts like Put Tools in Schools, a Charlotte-based nonprofit aiming to connect students with viable, high-demand career pathways in the skilled trades. Through career days, school events, and media outreach, the organization is lifting the profile of careers like Sean’s.


“This isn’t just about jobs—it’s about lives changed,” says the founder of Put Tools in Schools. “Sean’s a living example of how the industry can empower young people to take control of their futures.”


Charlotte: A Trades Capital in the Making

With over 2,000 landscaping and irrigation businesses operating across the Charlotte metro, and construction growth surging by 18% in just the last three years, this Southern city is a hotbed for skilled trades. And with more than 30 high schools in the region, each filled with students seeking direction, Sean’s story might just be the blueprint they need.


Whether it’s through certifications, internships, or jumping straight into a crew, there’s never been a better time to join the trades—and never a more urgent need to raise awareness about these opportunities.


Get Involved

  • Volunteer at a local school

  • Sign up your company for career day programs

  • Donate to help expand trade awareness efforts

Or, if you’re a student ready to trade the classroom for hands-on success, reach out. The shovel’s waiting.

🛠 Put Tools in Schools is building tomorrow’s workforce today—one trade at a time.📻 Catch more stories like Sean’s every Saturday morning on “About Your House” on Fox Sports Charlotte.


Support the mission by donating or volunteering at www.puttoolsinschools.org.




 
 
 

Comments

bottom of page