Dustin Brackney | Green Roof Installation and Maintenance Professional (GRIMP)

Dustin Brackney, GRIMP

Dustin is a seasoned Construction Manager at Living Roofs Inc., where he has dedicated the past nine years to advancing green building solutions. His journey in the industry began in 2004 when he built his first green roof—an experience that ignited a lifelong passion for sustainable design. Since then, he has played a key role in over 100 projects, from large extensive green roofs to vibrant rooftop amenity spaces and living walls. With a deep understanding of diverse project types, stakeholders, and geographic regions, Dustin brings unmatched enthusiasm and expertise to every endeavor, ensuring innovative and high-quality outcomes.

Learn more about our GRIMP trainings happening in New York City on May 2, Toronto on June 19, Denver on August 14, and in Raleigh, NC on October 23.

1. How did you hear about Green Roofs for Healthy Cities and the GRIMP program?
   I have been in the green roof industry since 2004, and Green Roofs for Healthy Cities (GRHC) has long been a leading advocate for the industry. Over the years, GRHC has served as a valuable resource for networking, learning about new products, and staying informed on evolving techniques and research. I first learned about the GRIMP program through my current employer, Living Roofs Inc.

2. What motivated you to pursue GRIMP accreditation?
   Earning GRIMP accreditation provides a recognized credential that assures architects, landscape architects, engineers, general contractors, and clients that I possess a strong foundational knowledge of green roof installation and maintenance. This certification reinforces my expertise and credibility within the industry.

3. During the training or in your work, what aspect of green roof installation and maintenance did you find most rewarding?
   Having worked in the industry for over 20 years, I find the most rewarding aspects to be discovering innovative ways to make green roofs more accessible and affordable, educating people on their benefits, and exploring incentives that encourage their widespread adoption.

4. What advice would you give to someone considering a career in green infrastructure?
   The work can be physically demanding, but the results are incredibly rewarding. Green infrastructure enhances urban resilience, contributes to environmental sustainability, and creates beautiful, inspiring spaces. For those passionate about sustainability, this field offers meaningful and impactful career opportunities.

5. What trends in green roofs or sustainability inspire you for the future?
   I am particularly inspired by green roofs designed to support pollinators while maintaining a thin, lightweight profile that makes them more accessible to a broader audience. It’s encouraging to see more designers and clients embracing green roof technology and recognizing its many benefits.

6. How do you see the role of skilled green roof installation and maintenance in promoting urban resilience or addressing environmental challenges?
   Unfortunately, many green roofs have been installed incorrectly or without proper long-term planning, leading to failures that can tarnish the industry’s reputation. Skilled installers and maintenance professionals play a critical role in ensuring the long-term success of these projects. Their expertise builds confidence among clients, encouraging more investment in green infrastructure as a viable and sustainable solution.

7. How do you envision having a GRIMP- certified professional contributing to the success of green roofing projects?
   GRIMP-certified professionals ensure that green roofs are installed and maintained to the highest standards, making them a standout feature of new or renovated buildings. Their expertise helps create visually appealing, functional, and sustainable green spaces, ultimately encouraging more widespread adoption in both private and municipal projects.

8. Have you had a chance to put what you learned into practice? If so, can you share a recent project where it was particularly beneficial?
   While the coursework and exam didn’t necessarily introduce new concepts to me, they reinforced my passion for this industry and its importance. In my role as Construction Manager at Living Roofs, I regularly onboard new employees, and they are always excited to learn that there is a dedicated organization advocating for the green roof industry. This accreditation serves as an important reminder of why our work matters and helps inspire the next generation of professionals.

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Green Roofs for Healthy Cities is a non-profit 501(c)(6) professional industry association working to grow the green roof and wall industry throughout North America since 1999. Our mission is to develop and protect the market by increasing the awareness of the economic, social, and environmental benefits of green roofs, green walls, and other forms of living architecture through education, advocacy, professional development, and celebrations of excellence. 

We publish The Living Architecture Monitor quarterly online magazine where industry leaders share their insights and expertise. These articles increase awareness of the economic, social, and environmental benefits of green roofs, walls and other forms of living architecture.

We also offer free access to The Living Architecture Academy, an online professional development platform which is dedicated to bringing you the best, most up to date professional training information on design, installation and maintenance practices across a wide range of green infrastructure topics. The LAA offers short lectures and multi-day courses such as: Green Roof Professional Training, Introduction to Green Walls, Biodiverse Green Roof Maintenance, and more.  

We also publish the Green Pages: Industry Green Roof and Wall Directory which is designed to support you with your living architecture projects by providing a list of trusted manufacturers, suppliers of accessories, green walls, nurseries, and certified Green Roof Professionals (GRPs). From small-scale residential projects to large commercial installations, this directory has everything you need to find support to create a sustainable and beautiful living space.

From the Living Architecture Monitor