Meet Our Diamond Certified Expert Contributor

Thomas Smith: The Trail to Success

By Julie Deacon, Diamond Certified Research Writer

Before entering the landscaping industry, Thomas Smith worked in healthcare as a surgical assistant. While he valued the experience, he ultimately realized he wanted a profession that would allow him to connect with nature. “It started when I discovered the thru-hiking community and became fascinated by the idea of hiking the Appalachian Trail,” he explains. “Once I learned it was possible, I couldn’t stop thinking about it.”

Thomas spent months preparing for his journey, gradually collecting equipment and learning everything he could about long-distance backpacking. He eventually completed the trail’s roughly 2,200 miles over the course of five months, which he describes as a transformative experience. “When I got back, I knew I wanted a career that allowed me to spend more time outside,” he says.

Thomas’ revelation ultimately led him into landscaping and stone masonry. After gaining experience with landscaping projects in California and Maryland, he moved to Colorado to apprentice under La Plata Stone Design and learn the craft of drystack masonry, which immediately resonated with him. “I loved the balance of physical labor and problem-solving,” he says. “You have to think strategically, be patient and trust the process. It’s rewarding to put a lot of effort into something that also serves as a creative outlet.”

When the time came to launch his own business, Thomas chose a name that paid tribute to the company where he learned the trade. Today, Oakland Stone Landscaping Design specializes in creating outdoor spaces that blend craftsmanship, functionality and natural beauty. Thomas says the most fulfilling aspect of his job is helping homeowners transform their properties into places they can truly enjoy. “We’re creating something beautiful, but we’re also creating spaces where people will make memories with their families. That’s meaningful to me.”

Thomas lives in Oakland with his wife, Rachel, and their dog, Wally, and he says the region’s geography continues to inspire him both personally and professionally. “Whether it’s Mount Tamalpais, the bridges, the hills overlooking the cities or the coastline along Highway 1, there’s just so much natural beauty here. The weather is also great for landscaping year-round.”

Outside of work, Thomas stays busy with a variety of hobbies, including playing in an adult hockey league, backpacking whenever possible and browsing local record stores in search of unexpected musical discoveries. “I love crate digging,” he affirms. “You go into a record store with no plan and stumble across something you never expected to find. It’s really exciting.”

Whether he’s building a landscape, exploring the backcountry or searching for his next favorite album, Thomas approaches life with curiosity and appreciation for the people around him. One quote that has stayed with him comes from Albert Einstein: “We are here for the sake of other men.” It’s a perspective that reflects both his years in healthcare and his current work creating outdoor spaces that people can enjoy for years to come.

Ask Me Anything!

Q: What’s your favorite thing to do on a rainy day?
A: Read a good book or watch a movie.

Q: What are you favorite kinds of movies?
A: I like dramas with authentic stories and strong character development.

Q: What’s your favorite band?
A: Right now, it’s Geese.

Q: Would you ever skydive?
A: I did once, but I probably wouldn’t do it again. It was pretty terrifying.