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“I am seeking the opportunity to serve on the TCIA Board of Directors to give back to an industry that has become an important part of my family’s life and business. My background in education, nonprofit leadership, and helping operate our family-owned tree care business has given me a unique perspective on building relationships, connecting people with resources, and supporting organizational growth.

As the tree care industry continues to evolve, I believe TCIA plays a critical role in advancing the profession by providing education, business resources, advocacy, and a community that helps tree care companies succeed. I am particularly passionate about expanding TCIA’s reach within the growing Latino-owned business community. Many of these companies have the potential to benefit from TCIA’s safety resources, business education, professional standards, and industry connections, yet they may not always be aware of the opportunities available to them. I want to help bridge that gap by building relationships, increasing awareness, and encouraging greater engagement.

Serving on the Board would allow me to bring my experience and perspective while supporting TCIA’s vision of a stronger, safer, and more successful tree care industry. I am excited about the opportunity to help shape initiatives that promote business excellence, advance safety, and strengthen industry advocacy. I believe diverse perspectives create stronger organizations, and I would be honored to help TCIA expand its impact and create opportunities for the continued growth of the tree care profession.”

“I have found that working in the tree care industry checks a lot of boxes for me. Aside from the thrill of the work and the satisfaction of maintaining trees in a world that seems intent on cutting them all down, I also have grown to appreciate the business side of things. I think TCIA could play a role in guiding businesses that truly take care of their employees, from pay to benefits to safety in the field. This is the most appealing thing about TCIA to me – an org that could model this and show owners a way to run their business that centers employees. I’m sure this is true everywhere, but in New Mexico I see a ton of room for improvement when I look at how other companies are operating and I wish it could be changed.”

“While my time in the tree care industry has been relatively short compared to some previous board members (now four years) it has given me a fresh perspective on both the opportunities and challenges facing contractors, suppliers, and the industry as a whole. During that time, I’ve built meaningful relationships across the industry and developed a strong appreciation for TCIA’s role in advancing safety, professionalism, and business success. I would welcome the opportunity to serve on the Board to contribute my business and strategic perspective, represent the voice of an engaged industry partner, and help TCIA continue creating value for its members while supporting the long-term growth of the tree care industry.”

“I would like to serve on the TCIA Board of Directors because I want to help carry forward the improvements I have seen taking shape throughout my career in tree care. Our industry is advancing quickly. Standards are evolving, government regulations are changing, and companies need practical interpretation, guidance, and support to apply those changes in the real world.

I am especially interested in helping TCIA reach the people doing good work in the field every day: small companies, rural contractors, municipal crews, climbers, plant health care professionals, and owner/operators who serve their communities with skill and pride but often with limited recognition or support. I believe TCIA has an important opportunity to strengthen outreach, education, mentorship, accreditation, small business resources, municipal guidance, and career pathways through high schools, colleges, and training programs.

My background is not corporate or polished. I started with very little and worked my way through the industry by climbing, learning, leading crews, building a company, earning advanced credentials, and taking every opportunity I could to grow. That perspective matters. I understand the realities of small contractors, field workers, and growing companies trying to raise their standards while still managing the pressures of daily production, staffing, equipment, safety, and client expectations.

I am active in industry conversations through TreeBuzz, LinkedIn, professional relationships, and TCIA mentorship. I believe I can help TCIA connect with a broader range of voices across the industry, including those who may not always see themselves represented in association leadership.

I love tree care. I love the industry. I love the people. I love climbing trees, caring for landscapes, and working as a steward of some of the longest-living organisms on the planet. I believe that if our industry learns to think on the timescale of trees, not just short-term profit cycles, we can build stronger companies, healthier communities, and a better future for the urban and rural forest. Tree care professionals are highly skilled, multidisciplinary technicians doing difficult and often consequential work. This industry deserves strong representation, practical guidance, and leadership that reaches beyond the largest companies. I would be honored to serve TCIA’s members and help amplify the voices of the people working every day to raise the standard of professional tree care.”

“I am seeking the opportunity to serve on the TCIA Board of Directors because I believe the future of our industry depends on strengthening workforce development, advancing safety, and creating clear pathways for the next generation of tree care professionals. Throughout my career, I have worked across commercial, utility, municipal, and educational sectors, giving me a broad perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing companies of every size.

As Founder and Executive Director of Expert Tree Academy, a licensed nonprofit arborist trade school, and through more than three decades of industry experience, I have dedicated my career to developing practical training programs, promoting industry best practices, and building partnerships that improve safety, professionalism, and workforce readiness. I have had the privilege of instructing professionals across 44 states, serving as an international and North American Tree Climbing Championship judge, presenting at major industry conferences, and collaborating with utilities, municipalities, and industry organizations to elevate arboricultural standards.

If elected, I will bring an educator’s mindset, a collaborative leadership style, and a commitment to listening to our members. I will advocate for practical solutions that support member companies, strengthen our workforce pipeline, expand access to high-quality education, and reinforce TCIA’s role as the leading voice for safety, professionalism, and business success in the tree care industry. My goal is to help ensure that TCIA continues to serve members with integrity while preparing our profession to meet the challenges and opportunities of the future.”

“I am interested in serving on the Board of Directors for the following reasons.

1 I strongly believe the Tree Care Industry is overlooked and misunderstood as a whole in sour society, and I would like to see this hanged. I would like to work to bring the awareness of the risks, hazards, skills and importance of the industry and those employed and associated to the industry as a whole to the public and political as well as corporations and company leadership decision makers at all levels.

2 As an industry involved company owner whom is active in education of employees, lawmakers, and insurance industry members. I feel with the given situation ongoing around the United States concerning the issues with Insurance involved work and tree companies who perform them, that there is an absolute need for someone involved in both industries of Insurance & Tree Care, as I am to begin to bridge the void between Insurance and the tree care industry. This only can happen if we can bring lawmakers, insurance carriers and tree care industry companies to the table to solve the problem together.”

“Over the past four years, TCIA has played a significant role in the growth and development of CM Tree Service. The education, resources, and relationships we’ve gained through the association have strengthened every area of our business—from leadership and operations to safety, workforce development, and long-term strategic planning. Our company is a real-world example of what can happen when a growing business fully embraces the opportunities TCIA provides.

I would be honored to serve on the TCIA Board of Directors as an opportunity to give back to an organization that has had such a meaningful impact on our success. I am passionate about helping other companies grow, strengthening the operational side of our industry, and ensuring TCIA continues to provide practical, high-value resources that help arboriculture businesses of all sizes thrive.”

“I am seeking the opportunity to serve on the TCIA Board of Directors because I believe the future of our industry is built by professionals who are willing to contribute beyond their own organizations by sharing knowledge, investing in people, and working together to strengthen the profession.

Throughout my career, I have remained actively involved as both a practitioner and a volunteer leader. Whether serving on the Illinois Arborist Association Board of Directors, co-chairing the Chicago Region Trees Initiative’s Tree Risk Assessment and Management Work Group, mentoring apprentices, teaching in both English and Spanish, or contributing to workforce development initiatives, my focus has always been on creating opportunities for others to grow while building stronger connections across our industry.

As a Board Certified Master Arborist, business leader, and safety professional, I understand the challenges facing tree care companies of all sizes. I understand everything from recruiting and retaining qualified employees to advancing safety, professionalism, and technical excellence. I believe TCIA has the unique ability to unite professionals around shared standards, practical education, and collaborative leadership that benefits every member and the communities we serve.

If elected, I would bring a collaborative, thoughtful, and service-oriented perspective to the Board. I value listening first, building consensus, and helping ensure that every member, from those just entering the profession to experienced business owners and industry leaders, feels connected to an association that supports their success. It would be an honor to give back to an organization that has played such an important role in my own professional journey while helping shape an even stronger future for our members and our profession.”

“I have proudly worked in the tree care industry for the past 26 years. During that time, I have had the opportunity to work for manufacturers and alongside customers and dealerships, giving me a well-rounded perspective on the challenges and opportunities our industry faces.

My passion for the tree care industry drives me to continually educate, support, and advocate for the people who make it stronger every day. I believe that by sharing knowledge, encouraging innovation, and fostering collaboration, we can continue to elevate our profession and the value it provides to our communities.

It would be an absolute honor and privilege to serve on this board. I am committed to contributing my experience, perspective, and passion to help move our industry forward while supporting the success of future generations and honoring the legacy of those who built it before us.”

“I would like to contribute to the development of enhanced TCIA offerings that help tree care business leaders better position their companies to adapt and thrive amid significant industry changes, including rapidly rising insurance and benefits costs, accelerating AI capabilities, increasing industry consolidation, and evolving U.S. visa programs.”

“Serving on the TCIA Board of Directors has been one of the most rewarding volunteer opportunities of my career. It has been a privilege to work alongside dedicated industry leaders who are committed to strengthening and advancing the tree care profession. I would be honored to serve a second term and continue contributing to TCIA’s mission by helping tree care companies become safer, stronger, and more successful. I believe our industry is strongest when we work together to address challenges, share best practices, and create opportunities for the next generation of tree care professionals, and I look forward to continuing that work.”

“I would like to serve on the TCIA board of directors to collaborate with high Level industry peers and corporate members to help advance the industry and help shape the future of Arboriculture. With my expertise and knowledge of the industry I can help guide the vison TCIA has for the organization, directly influence how tree care is perceived by the public and government regulators, work through legislative process to positively impact industry critical issues such as labor shortages, equipment cost, safety, traing, along with Bussiness and workforce development. I am passionate about this organization’s mission and It would be a privilege to serve alongside such a dedicated team of professionals. As always I remain a steadfast supporter of the TCIA vision and would welcome the opportunity to bring my background and expertise to the board. Cheers and Blessings”

“I want to serve on TCIA’s Board because I believe the tree care industry is entering a pivotal era: growing public and private investment in trees and greenspaces — driven by consumer interest, municipal canopy goals, corporate sustainability commitments, and infrastructure funding — is expanding demand for professional tree care at the same time the ownership landscape of TCIA’s membership is shifting. As private equity and venture-backed consolidators increasingly acquire tree care companies, the association will need directors who understand both sides of that transition. 

In my 30+ years at Davey Tree, I’ve had the pleasure of working within operations, in the field and management levels.  I’ve worked on strategic, innovative solutions through public-private partnerships for the Company and our broader community of practice.  This last decade at Davey, I’ve had the pleasure of leading our shared services departments designed to enrich the employee experience, from pre-hire to retirement: Health and Safety, Human Resources, Talent Development, Talent Acquisition, and the Davey Institute.  Each of these experiences has informed my leadership and decision making, I am hopeful that I can make positive contributions to the TCIA Board.”

“Serving as Vice President and Integrator of Oak Bros Tree Care & Removal has allowed me to experience firsthand the transformational impact TCIA has on tree care companies. Our Accreditation journey strengthened our commitment to safety, leadership, operational excellence, and continuous improvement. It also demonstrated that Accreditation is far more than a designation—it is a framework that helps organizations build stronger businesses while better serving their employees, clients, and communities. I want to help more companies experience that same transformation.

I believe the future of arboriculture depends on developing strong leaders, attracting and retaining the next generation of professionals, embracing disruptive technologies that improve our industry, and continuing to elevate the standards that protect both our workforce and the public. As the industry evolves, TCIA has an incredible opportunity to lead that progress while preserving the professionalism and integrity that define accredited companies.

As an Integrator, my greatest strength is bringing people together around a shared vision and building systems that help organizations execute effectively. I enjoy creating scalable processes, improving communication, and developing frameworks that allow teams to achieve more together than they could individually. One area where I believe I can contribute is helping simplify and systematize the Accreditation journey, making it more approachable for companies by breaking complex processes into practical, repeatable steps that align with TCIA’s organizational structure and available resources.

Throughout my career, I have learned that the strongest organizations are built by leaders who are willing to set aside personal recognition in favor of the organization’s mission. I thrive on collaborative teams where diverse perspectives are valued, healthy debate leads to better decisions, and everyone remains committed to the collective goal. I welcome coaching, enjoy being challenged, and believe progress is achieved through trust, accountability, and perseverance—not individual accomplishments.

If selected to serve, my commitment would be to help strengthen an already exceptional Board by contributing my experience in strategic planning, systems engineering, leadership development, and organizational growth. More importantly, I would work to ensure TCIA continues equipping companies of every size with the resources, education, and support they need to build thriving businesses, create meaningful careers, advance Accreditation, and continue earning the public’s trust in professional tree care. My desire is simple: to help build the strongest possible team so that, together, we can leave the arboriculture industry stronger than we found it.”

“I am interested in serving on the Board of Directors to deepen my understanding of TCIA’s strategic initiatives while contributing a unique perspective from the equipment manufacturing sector. Through my work, I have built strong relationships with tree care companies across the country and have gained firsthand insight into their challenges, opportunities, and evolving needs. These conversations have provided valuable feedback—both positive and constructive—that I believe can help inform the Board’s decisions and support TCIA’s mission of advancing the tree care industry.”

“Our industry is exciting, dangerous, promising, and ever changing. I have enjoyed being a voice for our (at times) under-represented industry as a Board member within the Northern RI Chamber of Commerce and as a founding Board member within ArborAwards. Many of TCIA members are small to medium sized organizations that are navigating the complex climate of scaling to a multi million dollar business. My experience specifically in business, lead generation, omni channel marketing, arborist gear, and larger equipment will guide companies where they can inadvertently make costly decisions where legacy experts may still advise them. Arbor Care is unlike any business out there- traffic, weather, personalities, gear, trucks, and knowledge all have to come together perfectly every day to produce a quality product and keep people safe. Just as TCIA is a support pillar for our industry, I look forward to being a pillar of support within TCIA’s Board as an At-Large Director.”

“The tree care industry is so important to me. While my expertise lies primarily with plant and soil health, I feel I can help increase TCIAs business resources and individual training more in the areas of my expertise. I take immense pride in helping people and companies grow and enjoy every opportunity to learn from my peers as well.”

“I’ve grown up in this industry like many of you have. Tree care is not just a job. This is something those committed live and breath every day. In two-decades I have experienced many corners of the industry; from Trainee to Trainer. Apprentice to Journeyman. Worker to Owner. The last few years have been spent teaching, speaking and giving back. As member of the TCIA’s Board of Directors, I promise to bring 100% of my experience to the table with other industry leaders. My efforts would provide valuable insight into developing future opportunities for the TCIA and its members; YOU.”

“Over the past 16 years in the green industry, I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with tree care professionals, researchers, regulators, and associations. My experiences in marketing and communications have taught me how to build partnerships, speak to diverse audiences, and translate technical know-how into practical solutions. In other words, I help connect science with business and education with advocacy.

Arborjet has been a proud TCIA Corporate Member for 24 years. In my 12 years with the company, I have continuously engaged with TCIA staff and leadership on educational initiatives, industry events, thought leadership, and more. I am eager to join the Board and work alongside fellow directors to strengthen partnerships, support TCIA’s strategic priorities, and help tree care businesses succeed.”

“As a small business owner with over 13 years of experience in the arboriculture industry, I understand both the opportunities and challenges our industry faces. I am passionate about strengthening the future of arboriculture through building strong career pathways, strengthening safety culture, and ensuring companies of all sizes have the resources they need to succeed. I believe the future of our industry depends on developing the next generation of professionals, embracing innovation, and working collaboratively to elevate the standards of tree care. It would be an honor to contribute my experience, listen to the diverse voices of our membership, and help guide TCIA in serving our industry for years to come.

I believe our industry’s greatest strength lies in its people and that businesses are stronger when we support each other. Collaboration, mentorship, and a willingness to share ideas elevate our entire industry—not just individual companies. Lasting progress happens when we work together, because it truly takes a village to build a stronger, safer, and more respected arboriculture profession.”

“I want to help TCIA do more of what it exists to do: advance tree care businesses.  My five years in this industry have been spent in leadership, most of them as President of an 11-branch, 220-person company, and I now lead a tree care company as CEO.  I came to tree care after a career leading and turning around teams in other industries, and I would like to bring what I have learned across all of it to the work of the board.

Safety is the lens I bring to this work.  Tree care remains one of the most dangerous jobs in the country, with a fatality rate roughly 30 times the national average, and it is still one of the few high-hazard trades without its own federal safety standard.  Closing that gap matters enough to me that I already serve on the Public Policy Committee, which is where that advocacy belongs.  On an advisory board whose job is to be the voice of the industry, I would carry the same conviction into the guidance we give, keeping worker safety, workforce access, and the health of member businesses at the center of the conversation.

This board already runs deep in tree care experience, and it already has voices from outside the industry.  What I would add is a focus on the problem I hear most from owners: finding, keeping, and developing good people.  I build high-performing teams and I grow the leaders who run them, and I did exactly that leading that company before I came to build one of my own.  That tells me which parts of the workforce challenge are universal and which belong to our industry alone.

I also want TCIA to speak for the full range of its members.  The industry’s workforce and its next generation of owners are more diverse than they have ever been, and TCIA has already committed to meeting that reality, with a stated goal of 200 women- and minority-owned member companies and its Women in Tree Care initiative.  I have spent my career building high-performing teams by treating people as individuals and giving them room to lead, whatever their background, and I would bring that same commitment to how this board represents and grows the membership.  If members want to know more about how I think, my door is always open.”

“I would like to serve on the Board of Directors to increase the awareness of the TCIA and advance the mission and public policy of the tree care industry. To assist in developing the long term strategic mission of the TCIA for generations to come.”

“For over nine years, RW Stump Grinding has served the Richmond, VA, Charlottesville, VA, and Fredericksburg, VA markets as a specialist, professional stump removal company. We do one thing, and we do it well; we grind stumps and take full ownership of the process. Over that time, our client base has grown from small, independent tree companies to include several large, TCIA Accredited operations, alongside a steady base of direct residential clients.

I have been a TCIA member since October 2017, and in that time I have seen how much of the association’s resources, education, and community are built, appropriately, around full service tree care operations. Specialized subcontractors, like stump grinding, crane, and grapple saw operations, are a real and growing part of this industry, but we are not well represented in the rooms where TCIA’s direction gets set. I want to be that voice.

I bring board experience from serving on the Virginia 811 Advisory Committee as one of three excavator seat representatives, and as a board director and now two-term President of the Central Virginia Nursery and Landscape Association (CVNLA). For 20 years, my career was based in manufacturing before I made the switch to arboriculture and founded RW Stump Grinding. In order to accelerate growth in my company and formalize my standing in the industry, I pursued my ISA Certified Arborist credential in 2022, TRAQ in 2024, and WRRQ in 2026. That background shapes how I approach the business of arboriculture; constant measurement and improvement rather than growth for its own sake. I would bring that same instinct to TCIA’s own priorities.

If elected, I would bring the perspective of a small, specialized operator to TCIA’s Board, one who has grown alongside the industry’s own rising standards, and who has a stake in seeing this industry’s professionalism continue to advance for prime contractors and subcontractors alike.”