Asplundh Technical Services (ATS) has been around for nearly 10 years. This Home Office-based department provides specialized and focused support for field divisions. General Manager Jim Orr oversees the division, along with Manager Geoff Kempter, Quality Assurance Manager Paul Johnston and Administrative Assistant Phyllis Visco.

Recently, ATS took time to redefine its mission and to map out a strategic plan to best serve Asplundh field operations and our customers. The new mission states:

Technical Services supports the Asplundh family of companies in developing business opportunities, specialized training, technology transfer, enhancing corporate image, public relations, quality control and regulatory compliance.

More than ever, the utility industry is changing. Asplundh field operations must constantly adapt to those changing needs. ATS works with sponsors, field managers and other Home Office departments to enhance the overall quality of services provided to our customers.

There are many ways to organize distribution line clearance crews for better production, depending on the system, and ATS often assists field regions in evaluating which methods will work the best. For instance, a "super crew" with a follow-up chipping crew (pictured above) is equipment intensive, but can be highly productive.

In areas of training, ATS runs customized vegetation management workshops for field divisions, provides training for hazard tree removal programs, and has recently created computer-based training materials to help employees prepare for the ISA Certified Arborist exam. CDs are available to field divisions.

ATS maintains involvement in industry groups and associations, making frequent presentations and writing articles for various publications. By staying closely involved, ATS ensures that Asplundh operations have access to the latest research results and industry trends.

To assist managers and customers in benchmarking their operations, ATS has developed quality control procedures, crew performance indicators and a work-tracking program. The programs are easy to use and provide valuable data. ATS also creates programs to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and assists with issues such as wood waste disposal, reusable herbicide containers, GPS/GIS, Hazard Communication and more.

The ATS staff is often on the road. Jim, Geoff and Paul are ready to travel to any area in which the company operates to put on training workshops or to make presentations. For more information, you may reach ATS at extension 4244 in Willow Grove or e-mail info@asplundh.com.