Dalton Hermes, CEO of Hermes Landscaping, is proud of the company that has beautified Kansas City, Kansas businesses and homes for the past 50 years.

"I want to transition our company to a purpose driven organization," Hermes said. "It's based on respect and mindfulness, for all with whom we interact."

Hermes took reins of the family business at 27 years old in 1988. By then he had graduated with a degree in structural engineering and had worked in all aspects of the company. He embraces leadership and continually takes steps to learn and grow.

This year Hermes will attend the Conscious Capitalism Conference with leaders from a variety of industries. Hermes is already familiar with the model that puts people first, but expects to come home inspired.

Conscious capitalism speaks to conscious leadership, a conscious culture, purpose driven organization and relating to all stakeholders - team members, customers, vendors, investors, community and the environment with respect and understanding.

It's running a company that is environmentally and socially responsible. Hermes said his business may be, the first in the landscaping industry to be pursuing this purpose driven model.

"We want to be known as the most progressive," Hermes said. "We are going to be so intentional and aware of where we are going in order to attract the kind of customers and team members who align with our purpose. Backyards are one of the most underutilized spaces in America."