JD Heilman started in the irrigation business when he was only 10 years old and asked a crew that was installing a neighbor’s sprinkler system if he could watch them. He soon put his new knowledge to work for his lawn mowing customers by repairing their systems. JD continued gaining experience and growing his business through his teen years and then as an adult when he started Heilman Irrigation. Heilman Irrigation, LLC offers complete residential and commercial lawn and landscape sprinkler services. Their motto is “Service is our Specialty” and their services include repairs, maintenance, installation, spring start-up, winterization, and snow removal. They believe in excellent customer service and quality work, at a reasonable price.
Tell us a little about your family.
I was married this past May to my beautiful wife, Kristin (Coppola) Heilman. We are enjoying the beginning of our life together. We are also blessed to have recently adopted Pumpkin, our orange tabby cat.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?
Moving to the Omaha area a little over two years ago. My hometown in southeast Michigan was hit especially hard from the recession and the turmoil in the automotive industry. Omaha’s economy is thriving and the continued growth in the region has enabled me to make the transition to running my business full-time. It was also here that I met my wife, Kristin, along with many great friends and associates.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?
I enjoy spending time with family and friends, reading, and learning new things. I enjoy outdoor activities, including camping, hiking, bicycling, and water sports.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know?
I was born in the country of Luxembourg.
What are you the most proud of?
I’m proud to be an American and participate in the free enterprise system.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Never stop learning and improving yourself. I’ve learned more in the “real” world than I ever could have learned in school.
What is the one goal you would most like to accomplish?
Grow my business to the point where we can fund and develop large-scale water and irrigation projects in third world countries. I would love to bring clean water to those in need. It’s something we often take for granted, but it can make a world of difference in saving and improving lives.
If you could have a super power, what would it be?
The ability to fly.
What are your plans after retirement?
Continue to lead my business and work with our customers, mentor other entrepreneurs, travel, relax in the islands.
What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life?
I’m a talented pianist.
Which talent would you most like to have?
The ability to fluently speak a foreign language.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read?
Anything by John Grisham.
What is your favorite movie?
Office Space
What is your favorite TV show?
The Office, MacGyver or CSI
What is your favorite local restaurant?
Either Upstream or Wheatfield’s
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be?
Thomas Edison. I have so many questions I’d like to ask him. His persistence and passion are very inspiring.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?
Either by phone at (402) 350-1531 or by email: jd@heilmanirrigation.com
I look forward to speaking with you soon!
For more information about Heilman Irrigation, Inc., please visit their website at www.heilmanirrigation.com.