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Celebrating 20 Years of Leadership
Wright Tree Service Senior Vice President Rick Bonifas has announced his retirement, effective December 31, 2024. For nearly 20 years, Rick has been a dedicated employee owner, a guiding presence through periods of change, and a mentor to many. His last day of work has been well planned, but the start of his journey at Wright Tree Service was a bit more serendipitous.
“I didn’t officially apply for any position,” Rick shared. “Out of the blue, I was contacted by Current Wright Tree Service President Wade Myers. And next thing I know I am having dinner with him and the former President of Wright Tree Service Will Nutter.”
His prior experience working as a general foreperson and utility forester earned him the job of project manager. In March of 2005, he moved west to Utah from Illinois to manage crews performing vegetation work. Rick moved through the ranks, working as a division manager, regional manager and vice president. Over the years, his dedication to helping the company grow and succeed on the West Coast was evident. He was promoted to senior vice president in 2022. In this role, Rick managed all operations in the western U.S. and Canada.
“During my entire career I reported to and was mentored by Wade Myers,” Rick said. “He has seen traits in me that I did not see, challenged me and pushed me out of my comfort zone. This improved my skills, emotional intelligence, communication, and resilience, which allowed me to take on new positions and responsibilities.”
Wade has been similarly influenced by his outgoing colleague. “Rick’s dedication to helping the company grow and succeed has helped me become a better leader,” Wade said. “For roughly 20 years I have been able to count on Rick to deliver results with precision and timeliness. I will miss having those tough conversations that need to be had to make decisions that ultimately improve our operations.”
Rick’s time at WTS has been memorable. “There are too many conversations, dinners, truck rides, meetings with friends and colleagues, to wrap them up in just a couple memorable moments,” Rick said. “It really comes down to the great people and the faces who work so hard to make our company the best in the industry. I appreciate every moment I’ve had with all my great colleagues. It’s been a great privilege and a joy!”
In his retirement, Rick plans to make more time for his community and family. He is looking forward to spending one-on-one time with his wife, Athena, and traveling with her to see his children and grandchildren, who are scattered across the U.S. “I will miss working with such a great group of professional colleagues who are my friends,” Rick shared. “Thank you all for putting up with me and thank you for always treating me with respect!”
On behalf of everyone at WTS, we want to thank Rick. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to him for his 20 years of dedication. We wish him all the best in his well-deserved retirement!
