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The late Mark Kimbrough was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the UAA’s annual awards luncheon, held during the Trees & Utilities Conference in Texas this fall. The award was accepted posthumously by Mark’s wife, Misty, and their son, Andrew, in a heartfelt tribute to a man who left a profound impact on the industry.

Andrew expressed gratitude to the UAA and Townsend Tree Service for the opportunity to honor his father. “This was a huge honor to accept the Lifetime Achievement Award on my dad’s behalf,” he said. “Mark was well respected and loved by so many in the industry, which was evident by the countless comments and messages of support.”

Mark Kimbrough, who served as Vice President of Safety and Training at Townsend Tree Service, was a relentless advocate for safety within the arboriculture field. His colleagues fondly remembered him as a “consummate safety professional,” with John Sullivan, Safety Director at Tree Care of New York, remarking, “Well deserved! It was such a pleasure to know and work with Mark for many years.”

Mark’s contributions extended beyond his own company; he was known for his willingness to assist peers across the industry, always striving to ensure everyone returned home safely. He played a crucial role in shaping safety standards, serving on various rule-making committees, including the ANSI Z133 and ANSI/SAIA A92 consensus standards, and chairing the Utility Line Clearance Safety Partnership.

His work with OSHA to modify critical safety regulations further exemplified his dedication to the profession. In recognition of his outstanding contributions, he received the UAA Will Nutter Silver Shield Safety Award in 2019, a testament to his unwavering commitment to enhancing safety in the utility arboriculture sector.

Mark’s legacy continues through the ongoing efforts of his colleagues and industry peers, who pledge to uphold his vision for safety and professionalism. As Philip Moran, Director of Safety at Power & Construction Group, shared, “Mark was a delight to be around. A man of great character, he is missed dearly by myself, safety colleagues, and many more.”

Mark’s passion for safety and engagement within the UAA inspired many to become active participants in promoting a strong safety culture. He encouraged others to enhance their involvement, emphasizing the importance of advancing utility arboriculture as a skilled industry.

As we remember Mark Kimbrough, we celebrate not only his achievements but also the lasting influence he has left on the arboriculture community. His commitment to safety and professionalism will resonate for years to come, ensuring that his legacy continues to inspire future generations in the industry.