Waterloo Turf is approaching its first full year of franchising with momentum and a growing national footprint. The company continues to attract franchise owners from diverse professional backgrounds, most recently including several former law enforcement personnel who were drawn to the promise of business ownership and improved work-life balance. Stephen Tong, now overseeing the Waco and College Station markets in Texas, spent years as a deputy sheriff before choosing a career path that would allow more time with his family while still providing meaningful and rewarding work.
A similar shift inspired Hunter Knowles, who now leads Waterloo Turf operations in Baker and Boise, Idaho. Knowles says the turning point came when he realized he wanted to build something that would belong entirely to him rather than remain in traditional sales. His focus on family-friendly outdoor solutions has already resonated with customers who are seeking quality and lasting improvements to their homes. His move reflects a growing trend among home services franchisees who value autonomy and opportunities for long-term growth.
In Fort Collins and Boulder, Colorado, Joshua Boyett has also transitioned from law enforcement to business ownership and credits Waterloo Turf’s support infrastructure for his fast start. “I sold my first turf job before I completed training,” Boyett says. He attributes his early success to the company’s thorough operational guidance and a personal commitment to integrity. Boyett believes that reliable workmanship and clear communication are the cornerstones of customer satisfaction in the home improvement market, and he has built his young business around that philosophy.
Looking ahead, Waterloo Turf is laying the groundwork for its next major phase of expansion. CEO Tim Lovett says the company will enter 2026 with a renewed focus on operational support across its franchise network. He views this next stage as an opportunity to reinforce the foundation built during the brand’s first year and to position franchise partners for long-term success in a rapidly expanding artificial turf market.
