Born and raised in Lufkin, Texas, Evan Ehrlich ‘26 has always been passionate  about the outdoors.  Growing up, he would mow yards. This eventually led to him getting into landscaping and working on projects such as installing flowerbeds. While working on these projects, Evan noticed that there were significant mark-ups on the products he was purchasing. Realizing that he would rather be on the supplier side, Evan created 3E Outdoor and Landscape Supply as his AGEC 424-425 project.

As he developed his business plan for 3E Outdoor and Landscape Supply, he identified two enterprises. The first one focused on selling things for the yard. This included materials such as mulch, sand, soil and rock. The second enterprise focused on the production of landscaping and mulch for wholesale. He chose two enterprises because it allowed him to gain a better understanding of the industry.  As Evan worked on his project, he realized that he prefers the supply side over the install side because it involves being outside working, which he enjoys, but also requires office work, making it not as labor intensive. 

Throughout the 2024-2025 academic year, Evan especially enjoyed the Mentoring Forum because he felt it had a “personable atmosphere”. He especially enjoyed talking to Hugo Flores. Even though Flores has a different business than Evans, they were able to discuss how to market products when the enterprise is not unique.  He also enjoyed the Prof-for-a-day dinners, because they allowed him extended time to speak with the guest lecturers.  His favorite was Colton Bubela’s dinner because they had similar projects.

Evan Ehrlich '26, seated with Colton Bubela at the Prof-for-a-day Dinner

One of the biggest challenges Evan faced was finding mentors.  He says he is grateful for the experience, because it helped him to improve his networking skills and he is confident that over the past year, his network has expanded immensely.  

Evan competed at the 2025 Texas Farm Credit Symposium.  He was a top six  finalist and was awarded the Capital Farm Credit scholarship. He also received an award for his written AGEC 425 project. Evan hopes to pursue his business plan after graduating, but first wants to work in either construction or large equipment sales to gain experience and knowledge.  He is currently interning with Alpha Painting and Decorating, a commercial painting business, owned and managed by the family of former student Amber Sells ‘20.