Davey Tree Flipbooks

Safety is Always Evolving A safe work environment takes practice, patience and a team of employees who are willing to strive for it. There is always room for improvement when practicing safety, especially as safety regulations and standards constantly evolve. That's the idea Sean Zieche had when he decided to enroll in the extensive Certified Treecare Safety Professional (CTSP) program the Tree Care Industry Association offers. Prior to enrollment in the two-day class, Zieche, production manager at The Care of Trees Glen Ellyn office, had to submit an application and 14-question critical thinking exam. A CTSP certification encourages a safe work culture and practices. Since safety regulations and industry standards are always evolving within the tree care industry, Zieche will now be up to date on the latest safety practices, technological advances and regulatory activities. "This will absolutely help me make safe decisions," Zieche says. "This has opened a lot of different thoughts and makes me think differently on the job." November/December 2014 | 15 W hen four to five years of projects, professional development and volunteering culminate to signify one major accomplishment, it feels good to reflect. "The more ideas you have, the more you can grow," says Holly Richards, GIS Specialist for Davey Resource Group's Geographic Information Systems (GIS) department. This year, Richards joined GIS Analyst Will Ayersman and GIS Specialist Jason Popik in their efforts to complete the requirements to earn GIS Professional (GISP) certification. "When you become GISP certified, clients really trust the work you've completed," Popik says, adding certification "opens the door" to travel opportunities associated with collaborat- ing and brainstorming with other GISPs. "Our shared experiences make it easy to communicate with other professionals within our field," Richards added. All three take pride in the portfolios that they have created to document their work on their path to earning certification. "The great thing about GISP certification is that there are so many different criteria that must be achieved before becoming certified," Ayersman says. "It is very rewarding once you finally reach that goal." Opening the Door to Professional Growth Sean Zieche T wo outstanding Davey employees have recently been recognized by the Utility Arborist Association (UAA). Larry Abernathy, vice president and general manager of Davey Surgery, received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the UAA's annual luncheon. The Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes a utility arborist who has reached many milestones during his or her career. Abernathy has served on the UAA's executive board and currently serves on the association's safety and editorial committees. "I am proud to be a part of such a great organization, and it was an honor to accept such a prestigious award," Abernathy explains. Jim Neeser, Davey Resource Group business developer, was also recognized at the luncheon for his new position as UAA treasurer. Neeser has served on the association's training commit- tee, assisted with regional conferences, written articles for the association's newsletter and served as a chairman. "I'm looking forward to improving some processes and procedures," Neeser says. Larry Abernathy (pictured third from the right) earned the UAA Lifetime Achievement Award at the ISA Conference in July. (Photo courtesy of UAA.) Holly Richards (front, left), Jason Popik (back, center) and Will Ayersman earned their GISP certifications this year. Davey Employees Shine at UAA Luncheon Jim Neeser was elected to UAA's executive board to serve as treasurer for the 2014-2015 term.

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