Jason Sismilich, a retired Navy Chief, has taken ownership of the SpringGreen franchise in Portsmouth, Virginia, marking a new chapter in a career defined by service and discipline. After 21 years in the Navy, Sismilich transitioned into civilian life by building Alpine Lawncare, a local business known for its reliability and attention to detail. His move into franchising reflects both growth ambitions and a desire to better serve an expanding customer base.
While Alpine Lawncare established a strong reputation, customer demand soon outpaced the scope of what a small independent operation could offer. Sismilich began searching for a way to scale responsibly without sacrificing quality or trust. That search led him to SpringGreen, a brand whose structured systems and national support aligned with his long term vision.
“SpringGreen gives me a way to grow with purpose,” Sismilich said. He noted that the franchise model allows him to expand services while maintaining the customer relationships that helped build his original business. The balance between operational structure and local ownership was a key factor in his decision to join the network.
Brad Johnson, president of SpringGreen, said Sismilich’s leadership background makes him a strong fit for the brand. He emphasized that the values shaped through military service, including accountability, teamwork, and integrity, are consistent with what SpringGreen looks for in its franchise owners. Those qualities, Johnson said, position Sismilich for sustainable growth in the Portsmouth market.
As he begins operating under the SpringGreen banner, Sismilich plans to focus on service quality, community engagement, and thoughtful expansion. Drawing on lessons from both military leadership and small business ownership, he aims to build a company that supports employees, meets customer expectations, and contributes positively to the neighborhoods it serves.