About the Rock Star Award

Our Rock Star award honors ECG employees who demonstrate a sustained high level of performance and inspire others. 

This month, we have a first: A Rock Star winner who was a true rock star even before joining – actually, rejoining – Emerald Coast Growers.

Grass Production Supervisor Greg Mandel worked for ECG for several years until his love of music pulled him away. He developed a solid career as the drummer for Black Eyed Blonde, voted Best Band on the Emerald Coast. So he knew a thing or two about high volume.

“When Greg decided to return to the nursery industry, we welcomed him back,” says President Paul Babikow. “His presence at our Milton, FL location has been transformative for our grass production.”

Greg’s co-workers agree.

“Greg handles production so well. With many things going on at once, he maintains a smile through it all. His commitment to ECG is outstanding.”

“I've seen positive attitude consistently, great work ethic, and he’s busting previous records for production efficiency left and right.”

“Can’t say enough good things about what he’s doing. Definite game changer. He works so hard week in and week out. The results we see now reflect that.”

“I know Greg just recently came back to ECG, but he stepped up in a big way with a ton thrown at him. The change he has brought to grass production has really turned that section around.”

Greg didn’t need help keeping the beat for his band, but grass production is a very different kind of gig. It’s got a rhythm all its own and a lot of moving parts. Luckily, he has capable backup: Grass Production Assistant Supervisor Jackie Robinson-Sinkiewicz joins him on the podium this month in a rare Rock Star twin bill.

Greg was one of several who nominated Jackie.

“2020 grass production was highly impacted by Jackie’s outstanding organizational and people skills. I honestly do not know what I would have done without her directing traffic. ECG got lucky when we found her.”

Others joined the chorus:

“December grass production rocked! Greg and Jackie have kept the train moving and on track. Either one of them deserves the recognition.”

“Jackie has proven time and again that she can keep production moving forward with her outstanding attitude and work ethic. She does not hesitate to make improvements. She works side by side with employees and has built a great rapport with everyone at ECG Milton.”

‘She’s doing a killer job helping keep all these big production numbers rolling! She’s always in a great mood and very friendly, but she also knows how to be firm. She’s proved herself as a valuable member of the team.”

Congratulations, Greg and Jackie! Thank you for all your dedicated efforts, day in and day out. You rock!