2023 Richard E. Abbott Safety Scholarship Recipient: Jordyn McNiel

July 11, 2023

Dedication to safe practices is a core value of the organization that is ingrained in our DNA and a nod to our founder Richard E. Abbott, who was instrumental in the development of the ANSI Z133 Tree Trimming Safety Standards through the American National Standards Institute. His influence on safety set a precedent for our industry.

We demonstrate our commitment to safety and the development of our employees is showcased through our organization’s Richard E. Abbott Safety Scholarship — a $1,000 award that is granted annually to an employee who is seeking to further their career development and commitment to safety.

For as long as ACRT Lead Arborist Jordyn McNiel can remember, safety has been an integral part of her life — including being named as one of this year’s Richard E. Abbott Safety Scholarship recipients.

When she joined ACRT in April 2020 at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, McNiel took an interest in health and safety protocols. She pushed to learn more, stepped in as an Area Safety Representative (ASR), and became the co-chair of the group shortly after.

When deciding how to allocate her award, McNiel polled a handful of operations managers throughout the company, including Operations Manager David Leary – someone she looks up to. With their input, McNiel decided she wants to further her career by gaining an additional certification or attending an industry event.

Leary shared, “Jordyn has exemplified her determination and self-motivation by taking advantage of advancement and career opportunities within an exceptionally short timeframe. She has thrived into becoming an engaged safety leader that is committed to the growth of our culture of safety. She is the epitome of a dedicated employee making the best of developmental opportunities to enhance the furtherance of her career.”

Learn more about our safety philosophy.

This article was originally published in the 2023 July/August UAA Newsline.