The Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA) has elected two new members to its 2026 Board of Directors. Ron Gumz and Randolph Hoover were confirmed at the TCIA board meeting in February. Austin Bonnema from Vermeer Mountain West will serve as the new board chair; Amy Burkett, Burkett Arbor Care, LLC, as vice chair; and Jennifer McPhee, Harrison McPhee, Inc., as senior director. A special thank you to outgoing Chair Noel Boyer.

“We are excited to welcome both Ron and Randolph to the TCIA Board of Directors,” said David White, TCIA president and CEO. “They both bring a long history of experience and commitment to the tree care industry, and we look forward to their contributions.”

Ron Gumz, President, Wachtel Tree Science

Ron Gumz is president of Wachtel Tree Science, Inc., and a board-certified master Arborist. During his tenure at Wachtel Tree Science, he worked in production, sales, management and company ownership. He has also served in several capacities with the Wisconsin Arborist Association (WAA), including as president, and was recently honored with the organization’s Honorary Life Membership Award, one of its highest honors, recognizing individuals who have made significant contributions to the association and the field of arboriculture.

“It is a privilege to have given back to the tree care industry over the years. Now, as a member of the TCIA Board of Directors, I am eager to utilize my knowledge and experience to serve the industry on a national level. It is an honor to work alongside other industry professionals to advance TCIA’s goal of strengthening tree care businesses,” said Gumz.

Randolph Hoover, CEO, XKIG

Randolph Hoover is chief executive officer of XKIG and has more than 30 years of executive leadership serving utility customers nationwide. He provides strategic direction and long-term vision for XKIG, the parent company of Xylem Tree Experts, Kendall Vegetation Services, River City Construction and Xylem Tree Care. Hoover has been a driving force behind the company’s evolution into a coast-to-coast utility infrastructure organization, built on a values-driven culture, an uncompromising commitment to safety and a proven record of operational reliability.

“I’m honored to join the TCIA Board at a time when our industry plays a critical role in public safety, environmental stewardship and energy reliability,” said Hoover. “I believe sustainable growth is built on empowered people, disciplined leadership and a commitment to doing the work the right way. I look forward to supporting TCIA’s mission and the professionals who advance our industry every day.”

To see the full list of board members, click here. Want to learn more about TCIA and its membership community? Click here.