Leading the Way: 2025 MVV Award Winners Across XKIG

Across XKIG and our operating companies, our Mission, Vision, and Values (MVV) guide how we work, lead, and support one another in the field. 

Last year, CEO Randolph Hoover introduced the 2025 Mission, Vision, and Values Recognition Program and Employee of the Year Contest, designed to recognize the contributions of operational teammates across Xylem and Kendall. 

Through quarterly nominations and annual recognition, the program highlighted excellence across every level of the organization. Each quarter, one field team member from each region and brand was nominated by their Regional Manager. Of that group, four Quarterly Core Value Award winners were selected for each of the four core value categories, for a total of 32 employees, who received a $250 Arborwear gift card.  

From there, the final eight top Annual Core Value Award winners were selected and invited to the annual XKIG Leadership Summit in Norfolk, VA  (link to blog). Six received a $2,500 cash bonus, and two were named the 2025 Employee of the Year, with the grand prize of a brand-new Chevrolet 1500 pickup truck. 

Leading with Trust 

Trust is built in the field through consistency, decision-making, and the ability to follow through, especially in challenging situations. 

At Xylem, James Smith, General Foreperson (Region 4), has demonstrated this through his strong sense of ownership and commitment to keeping crews prepared and operations moving forward. His leadership reflects the reliability and accountability that teams depend on every day. 

At Kendall, Timothy Frazier, General Foreperson (Region 3), showed what trust looks like under pressure. During a difficult project, he remained focused and positive, helping guide his team through challenges and deliver a successful outcome. His ability to lead with resilience and follow-through builds confidence across both his crew and the broader operation. 

Together, their leadership highlights how trust is earned through action and sustained through consistency. 

Driving Transparency 

Transparency is essential to keeping teams aligned and work moving efficiently in the field. 

At Xylem, Michael Wheeler, General Foreperson (Region 7), has built a reputation for running smooth, well-executed operations while maintaining clear and direct communication. His approach ensures both his crew and leadership have confidence in how work is being carried out. 

At Kendall, Bobby Brown, Foreperson (Region 1), demonstrates transparency through his everyday actions. Known for his reliability and accountability, Bobby leads with openness and supports his team both on and off the job, including stepping in to help crew members get to work when needed. 

Their leadership reflects how clear, honest communication strengthens both performance and team trust. 

Earning Respect 

Respect is reflected in how leaders show up for their teams, their customers, and their work. 

At Xylem, Jay Samayoa, General Foreperson (Region 2), has earned that respect through the way he leads. From starting as a bucket operator to becoming a trusted leader, Jai has built strong relationships through accountability, consistency, and a genuine commitment to doing the job the right way. 

At Kendall, Gil Velasco, General Foreperson (Region 4), has developed a reputation that extends across crews and customers alike. His professionalism and leadership have earned the respect of those he works with at every level of the organization. 

Their impact demonstrates that respect is built over time, through actions, leadership, and how people are treated every day. 

Building Unity 

Strong teams are built through collaboration, communication, and a shared commitment to success. 

At Xylem, Richard Moore, Foreperson (Region 12), demonstrated this by stepping into a new assignment and building a team from the ground up. By creating an environment where crews supported one another and worked together effectively, he turned a challenging situation into a cohesive, high-performing team. 

At Kendall, Wilber Perez, Aerial Lift Trimmer (Region 4), brought that same mindset to a complex project. By aligning multiple crews under one plan, he ensured clear communication and a coordinated approach, helping drive a successful outcome. 

Their leadership shows how unity in the field leads to stronger teams and better results. 

Employees of the Year 

At the highest level, we are proud to recognize this year’s Employees of the Year: 

Xylem Tree Experts: Jay Samayoa, General Foreperson (Region 2)
Kendall Vegetation Services: Timothy Frazier, General Foreperson (Region 3)

Selected from this year’s MVV Award winners, Jay and Timothy represent the very best of our organization. Their leadership, consistency, and commitment to their teams set them apart at every level. 

As Employees of the Year, both were awarded a 2026 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, recognizing their outstanding performance and impact in the field. 

Looking Ahead 

We are proud to announce that the MVV Program continues this year, creating ongoing opportunities for field employees across all regions to be recognized, from crew members to general forepersons, through the same nomination and award process.  

We look forward to recognizing more team members who demonstrate these values in their daily work. 

Every crew member has the opportunity to be nominated and recognized for their contributions, reinforcing a culture built on integrity, communication, respect, and teamwork across XKIG.