From Chihuahua, Mexico, to Colorado: A Story of Hard Work & Determination
Jesus “Chuy” Medrano was born in Chihuahua, Mexico, where he grew up working on his family’s farm. Raised with strong values of hard work, resilience, and perseverance, he learned firsthand what it meant to cultivate the land and take pride in craftsmanship.
Seeking new opportunities, Chuy immigrated to the United States, where he found work in the landscaping industry. As a minority worker in a competitive field, he faced challenges but quickly proved his leadership and work ethic. His ability to connect with people and his deep knowledge of landscape management set him apart.
Building a Business Rooted in Integrity & Excellence
In 1991, Chuy Medrano and his colleague Tom Fochtman conceived the idea of starting their own landscape company. After a year of market and equipment research, they co-founded CoCal Landscape in December 1992 in Denver, Colorado. Starting from scratch, they secured their first clients by the end of 1993, achieving approximately $636,000 in revenue.
Today, CoCal is recognized as a leader in commercial landscaping, servicing HOAs, apartment complexes, corporate campuses, and more throughout Colorado.
Over the years, CoCal Landscape reached significant milestones:
- 1994
Achieved the first million dollars in revenue.
- 1995
Completed the first million-dollar project.
- 1997
Established a branch in Colorado Springs.
- 2000
Received the Chamber of Commerce Small Business Award.
- 2001
Purchased buildings for branches in Denver, Colorado Springs, and Fort Collins.
- 2003
Acquired Pratt Landscape in Longmont, CO, establishing a fourth branch.
- 2005
Expanded the fleet by purchasing 85 pickups with plows from Chevy.
- 2009
Restructured to have one Denver corporate office with branches as satellite yards.
- 2011
Chuy became the Founding President of the National Hispanic Landscape Alliance.
- 2012
Partnered with John Deere to purchase new propane mowers, emphasizing sustainability.
- 2013
Honored with the Rocky Mountain Regional Turfgrass Association Distinguished Service Award.
- 2014
Received the Hispanicize Positive Impact Award.
- 2016
Celebrated the most successful year in CoCal's history.
- 2017
Acquired a new headquarters building.
- 2019
Achieved a significant milestone by becoming debt-free.
- 2020
Chuy was honored with the Bob Cannon ALCC Lifetime Achievement Award.
Championing Hispanic Entrepreneurs & the Landscaping Industry
Chuy Medrano isn’t just a business owner—he’s a leader in the landscaping industry and a champion for Hispanic entrepreneurs.
First President of the National Hispanic Landscape Alliance (NHLA)
Chuy helped recruit and support Hispanic-Americans in the landscaping industry, providing mentorship and business opportunities.
Passionate About Workforce Development
Chuy has dedicated his career to training and developing the next generation of landscaping professionals.
Advocate for Supplier Diversity
He actively works to create opportunities for minority-owned businesses in the commercial landscaping sector.
