From Tree Trimmer to Trusted Advisor: The 30-Year Journey of Bob Urban

This year, ACRT Services proudly celebrates Senior Manager Bob Urban’s 30th anniversary with our organization. Since joining ACRT in 1995, Bob has been a cornerstone of our growth, innovation, and culture. His journey is one defined by dedication, expertise, and commitment to the people and purpose that drive our work.

Bob began his career in the field, developing firsthand experience and a deep respect for safety, field operations, and the professionals who keep utility systems safe and reliable every day. That foundation shaped the leader he would become: one who understands every facet of arboriculture and the utility vegetation management (UVM) industry from the ground up.

Over the years, Bob built that foundation to become a trusted voice in the field. He is an International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Utility Arborist and Utility Specialist and recognized across the industry as an authority and a resource. He has served as an expert witness and consultant for utilities and municipalities across the country, advising on everything from arboriculture and UVM practices to fire mitigation strategies. His ability to blend technical expertise with real-world insight has made him a go-to advisor in critical conversations about safety, risk management, and regulatory compliance.

In 2021, Bob received the Utility Arborist Association’s Will Nutter Silver Shield Award, honoring individuals on the front lines of advancing safety in the industry. Beyond this recognition, Bob’s service to the profession has been meaningful and lasting. He has contributed to the UAA Safety Committee, served on the Partners in Excellence (PinE) Award Committee, and remains an established speaker, author, and educator. His influence extends far beyond the ACRT Services family of companies, helping raise the bar for professionalism and safety industrywide.

Inside our organization, Bob has been instrumental in developing and strengthening ACRT Arborist Training in its infancy, helping it grow into a respected and effective program that continues to serve the needs of utilities and vegetation management professionals. His passion for mentorship and continuous improvement has empowered countless team members to build their skills and advance their careers.

From the early years — even before ACRT became an employee-owned company — to the present day, Bob has been there through it all. He has helped shape our culture, our reputation, and our success. No matter what the business has needed, Bob has always stepped up, embodying the values that define who we are today.

“As roles and responsibilities have changed, Bob has always soldiered through the changes, found your new north star and carried the torch of ACRT forward,” shares ACRT Services CEO Brad Schroeder. “After all these years, he has kept the energy, wisdom, ideals, and goals alive while keeping us all striving to do the same. We are grateful for your service, energy, and belief in what we stand for, who we are and why we’re here!”

Thank you, Bob, for 30 years of commitment, leadership, and impact. You’ve helped shape who we are today, and we’re grateful for all you’ve done for our family of companies, the UVM industry, and the people we serve.