For Aubrey Roberts, a beautiful landscape is more than well-maintained flower beds and freshly spread mulch. It’s a source of pride, accomplishment and purpose.
As a valued member of Didlake’s landscaping and grounds maintenance team at Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), Aubrey has spent decades helping create a welcoming first impression for millions of travelers who pass through one of Maryland’s busiest transportation hubs each year. His remarkable career and unwavering commitment to excellence recently earned him recognition as a nominee for the Maryland Works Employee of the Year Award.
Taking Pride in Every Task
Aubrey joined Didlake in 2013 when the organization assumed the landscaping and grounds maintenance contract for the Maryland Aviation Administration through Maryland Works. Already an experienced member of the BWI grounds crew for the prior Maryland Works vendor business partner, Aubrey seamlessly transitioned to Didlake and has continued demonstrating dedication and a strong work ethic.
Whether he’s pulling weeds, restoring flower beds, spreading mulch or maintaining green spaces across the airport campus, Aubrey approaches every task with enthusiasm and determination.
“I like learning new skills and using power tools,” Aubrey said. “I like the way the beds look when I am done weeding them. When we get compliments from MAA, it makes me happy.”
That pride is evident in everything he does.
Known among his colleagues as one of the hardest-working members of the crew, Aubrey embraces the challenge of performing at his best every day.
“I enjoy pulling more weeds than anyone else,” he said with a smile. “I am the fastest weed puller and have won the best weed puller many times in the past.”
Setting the Standard
Those who work alongside Aubrey know his commitment to excellence is more than friendly competition. It’s a reflection of the high standards he sets for himself and the positive example he sets for others.
“Aubrey wants to be the hardest worker, fastest worker and best worker every day, and he tries to live up to those standards,” said Project Manager Adam Chorney.
Over the years, Aubrey has continued to develop his skills and expand his capabilities. He has learned to safely operate power equipment, strengthened his communication skills and grown into an even more effective team member. His willingness to learn has contributed to his long-term success and made him an invaluable member of the BWI team.
More Than a Great Employee
While Aubrey’s work ethic is impressive, those who know him say it is his positive attitude that truly sets him apart.
His energy and enthusiasm are contagious, helping boost morale and create a welcoming environment for everyone around him.
“You can always tell how hard the day was by looking at how dirty Aubrey is when he returns at the end of the day,” Adam said. “Usually, his shirt is covered in dirt or mulch, and as he walks through the door at the end of the day, his huge smile lights up the room.”
That positivity has earned him another distinction among his coworkers.
“Aubrey is a ray of sunshine at work each day,” Adam said. “He brings an incredible work ethic, positive attitude and genuine pride in everything he does, while making everyone around him smile along the way.”
Working for What Matters Most
Aubrey’s dedication at work also reflects what matters most to him outside of work: family.
He is especially devoted to caring for his mother and values the financial stability his career has provided. Through his employment, Aubrey has been able to help support his family while enjoying meaningful experiences with those he loves.
“Working at Didlake allows me to take care of my mom and do fun things like take vacations to Jamaica,” he said.
A Well-Deserved Recognition
For decades, Aubrey has demonstrated what inclusive employment looks like at its best: commitment, growth, pride and purpose.
His contributions help ensure BWI’s grounds remain beautiful for travelers from around the world. More importantly, his positivity, determination and dedication inspire those around him every day.
As a nominee for the Maryland Works Employee of the Year Award, Aubrey is being recognized not just for the work he does, but for the example he sets.
And while travelers may admire the colorful flower beds and well-kept landscapes throughout BWI, Aubrey knows the greatest reward is seeing the results of a job well done.
When the airport receives compliments on its appearance, he takes pride in knowing he helped make that happen.
It’s that commitment to excellence, combined with a smile that never seems to fade, that makes Aubrey Roberts an exceptional employee, teammate and ambassador for Didlake.
