Building the Future of Safety: Richard E. Abbott Scholarship Recipients
At ACRT Services and our family of companies, safety has been and will always be at the forefront of our organization — from the services we provide to utility partners, to investing in the development of the industry’s newest leaders.
This dedication to safe practices is a core value of the organization that was instilled by ACRT’s founder, Richard E. Abbott, who helped develop the Z133 Tree Trimming Safety Standards through the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). His influence on safety set a precedent for our industry and created a legacy ACRT has upheld since.
As part of our commitment to safety and the development of our employees, recipient(s) of the Richard E. Abbott Safety Scholarship are awarded $1,000, which is granted annually to recipient(s) who are seeking to further their career development and commitment to safety.
Our 2021 Scholarship Recipients:
Lorraine Konopka, Consulting Utility Forester (CUF), ACRT
After witnessing a substantial power outage in 2019, and the investigation that followed, Konopka realized the importance of safety protocols, understanding the power of electricity, and the necessity of clear communication between different departments.
Lorraine used her award to work toward becoming an ISA-Certified Utility Specialist, a certification that helps keep peers and herself safe when working in the field.
Jason Llano, Utility Arborist Supervisor I, ACRT
Early in his career, Llano realized tree work was very hazardous and recognized the importance of promoting a culture of safety.
After receiving the scholarship, Jason expanded his safety knowledge by finding the best ways to convey and implement a culture of safety to newcomers and veterans of the industry by stopping work to discuss a well-planned course of action.
Our 2022 Scholarship Recipient:
Timothy Robertson, Vegetation Management Inspector, ACRT Pacific
Timothy’s devotion to safety is admirable as he is dedicated to staying updated on ANSI Z133 Tree Trimming Safety Standards and implementing those practices into his daily fieldwork.
Robertson used the scholarship to become a Certified Tree Care Safety Professional (CTSP) through the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA), complete an OSHA 30-hour training course, and earn his Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ) certification through the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA).
Our 2023 Scholarship Recipients:
Kerry Joseph, Sr. Supervising Utility Pre-Inspector, ACRT Pacific
From the moment Kerry lost his father to a car accident in 1990, safety has been an integral part of how he thinks and operates every day. Kerry’s Safety Manager and Tribal Liaison, M.K. Youngblood shared, “[Kerry] is the epitome of what a safety scholarship recipient should be: hardworking, loyal, safety-conscious, and a willingness to learn.”
Joseph used this award to pursue Certified Safety Professional® (CSP) and Certified Environmental and Safety Compliance Officer (CESCO) certifications to further his career and safety efforts.
Jordyn McNiel, Lead Arborist, ACRT
For as long as she can remember, safety has been an integral part of Jordyn’s life. When Jordyn joined ACRT in April 2020 at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, safety protocols were enhanced and she took note. She pushed to learn more, stepped in as an ASR, and became the co-chair of the group shortly after.
Jordyn decided she would use the scholarship to further her career by gaining an additional certification and attending an industry event.
Our 2024 Scholarship Recipients:
Krystee Van Den Bosch, Consulting Utility Forester (CUF), ACRT
Krystee prioritizes her team. She understands the risks and challenges faced working remotely in the wilderness, leading her to apply for funding to put towards Wilderness First Aid Responders training, which influences her peers to gravitate toward her for knowledge and guidance.
Van Den Bosch used the scholarship toward training, which she brought back to her local team in Northern Florida and hosted safety tailboard sessions to share highlights, which contained especially pertinent information that relates to her team’s day-to-day roles as foresters.
Kayla Spratt, Pre-Inspection Manager (PIM), ACRT Pacific
Kayla is devoted to helping people, and being of service to others inspires her daily. As a PIM, Kayla mentors Vegetation Management Inspectors, helping them grow their careers while prioritizing safety. Kayla also serves as Secretary for ACRT Pacific’s Safety Committee—another way for her to help others through safety.
Kayla utilized her scholarship award to pursue a Wilderness First Responder (WFR) Recertification course and further expand her knowledge of safety in the field.
