Colleagues & family celebrate Andy ’ s VISTA recognition
( left to right ):
Mike Barrows John Haehnel Kevin Cleveland , MCA Andy Felix , MCA
Lindsay Felix McCarthy & Riley
Meagon Felix Tyler Felix & Chase Cameron Felix
Andy Felix • VISTA Award ( continued from p . 3 )
would ring in Foxboro . It worked like a charm and helped us develop a strong clientele in the Boston area .
From 1994-1999 , with the help of great tree guys and a strong economy , we went on a tear . This enabled us to save money and purchase 2.5 acres of commercial property in Foxboro where we built a pretty decent facility . Just prior to this , I had convinced Paul Harlow to come out of retirement and join our company . This raised the bar even higher . Between the new building and our brand gaining traction , we were able to attract some very good people , many of whom are still with us today . In fact , two of them recently retired after spending the 20 years helping our company . Hated to lose them but I am thrilled they were able to retire with a level of comfort .
What ’ s the best business advice you ever received ? I used to think it was Gordon King ’ s “ Stay small , go fishing and get a good accountant .” That kind of went out the window . Now I would say , “ Work with people who are smarter than you .”
What advice would you share with people starting out today ? Work for a reputable company , that operates legitimately , prioritizes safety , provides training and offers career opportunities .
Since you started your career , what is the biggest change you ’ ve seen in the industry ? The equipment is faster , stronger , safer and more efficient .
What ’ s the next big “ game changer ” you see on the horizon for the tree care industry ? Robotics and equipment that reduces exposure to hazardous conditions .
How do you like to spend your free time ? Collecting weird , rare plants and turning our home into a mini arboretum — or out on a boat with family , friends , fishing , waterskiing , and just cruising .
Speaking of family , Tree Tech is a true family business , right ? Yes , in that my two sons , one stepson , and my wife Meagon are all active in the business . There are also many people who have been here for many years and have become like family . This has been the root of our success .
What does your being recognized with the VISTA award mean to you ? To be recognized along with the previous award winners is as good as it gets !
4 MAA NEWS DecemBer 2020