Ready to sharpen your skills and level up your crew? Our next in-person training at The Hardscape Academy is set for April 11–12, 2025, and it’s packed with essential education and hands-on experience for contractors at every level.

Whether you're just starting in hardscaping or sending a new hire to get properly trained, this two-day experience is designed to build a strong foundation for success.

What You’ll Learn:

✅ Paver installation basics – tools, layout, patterns, and compaction
✅ Retaining wall installation basics – block systems, geogrid, drainage, and more
✅ Landscape lighting fundamentals – intro to low-voltage lighting systems
✅ Basic budgeting – know your numbers and start pricing with confidence
✅ Operating machinery – safe operation of common hardscape equipment
✅ Job site data capture – how to document and track your work in the field
✅ Hands-on training – you’ll work with materials and tools on real builds
✅ Catered sit-down lunches – refuel, relax, and connect with othe...

As the founder of Auman Landscape, I'm passionate about sharing my knowledge and experience with others. That's why I created the Hardscape Academy - an intensive two-day training program designed to give newcomers to the industry a solid foundation in the fundamentals. Over the course of these two days, we cover everything from paver installation to retaining wall construction, lighting design, and even some essential business skills. The goal isn't to turn attendees into experts overnight, but to provide them with the core knowledge and hands-on experience they need to excel in this field. On day one, we dive deep into paver-related topics. We talk about the right tools for the job, labor-saving devices, and data-capturing technology that can streamline workflows. But more importantly, we focus on the principles of proper paver installation - things like base preparation, sub-soil compaction, and effective paver compaction techniques. Day two builds on that foundation, exploring reta...

Caleb recently hosted Kyle Robertson, Tyler Kaufman, and Matt Phillips in the Company Cam studios after they attended one of his Hardscape Academy events. In a new episode of the Kid Contractor Podcast, Caleb catches up with the trio to get their thoughts on the Academy and how they have applied what they learned to their businesses. Kyle, Tyler, and Matt discuss the equipment they use, how they handle billing and invoicing, and things they have discovered about being self-employed contractors.

All three attendees found the Academy extremely helpful for expanding their knowledge of hardscaping techniques and designs. Tyler especially wanted to learn more about patios and retaining walls to add to his excavation and drainage work. Matt is looking to branch out from his lawn care company into more complex landscape installations. The Academy gave them both new skills and ideas to take their businesses in new directions.

Caleb also draws out valuable lessons from their experiences start...

In recent years, hardscaping has emerged as a sought-after skill, allowing individuals to create breathtaking outdoor spaces using stone, concrete, and other durable materials. Aspiring hardscape professionals and enthusiasts are constantly on the lookout for comprehensive training and valuable insights to elevate their skills. In a recent episode of the Kid Contractor podcast, Caleb Auman, the instructor at the Hardscape Academy, interviewed two attendees, Nathan and Dylan, who share their transformative experience at our academy. Their conversation sheds light on the immense value and positive impact that the Hardscape Academy offers to those seeking to excel in this creative field.

During the podcast, Nathan expresses his excitement about discovering new tools and techniques. Specifically, he highlights the process of cutting bricks and creating beautiful curved bandings—a concept he had never encountered before attending the Hardscape Academy. Nathan's revelation underlines our co...