Rich Simpson
About Rich Simpson
Rich Simpson serves as the Supervisor of Region Forestry at American Electric Power, where he has worked since 2000. He oversees vegetation management for approximately 16,000 miles of distribution line and supervises a team of six Utility Foresters.
Work at American Electric Power
Rich Simpson has worked at American Electric Power (AEP) since 2000, currently holding the position of Supervisor, Region Forestry. In this role, he is responsible for managing vegetation along approximately 16,000 miles of distribution lines. He supervises a team of six Utility Foresters and oversees around 200 crews dedicated to vegetation management. His extensive experience in this position has contributed to the effective management of AEP's vegetation control efforts.
Education and Expertise
Rich Simpson earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Forestry from Penn State University, where he studied from 1983 to 1987. His educational background provides him with a solid foundation in forestry principles and practices, which he applies in his current role at American Electric Power. His expertise in vegetation management is further enhanced by his extensive work experience in the field.
Background in Forestry and Vegetation Management
Before his current role, Rich Simpson served as a Transmission Forester at American Electric Power from 1996 to 2000, where he worked in Southern Ohio and Northern Kentucky. His career in forestry began earlier when he worked as a Tree Trimmer/Spray Tech at The Davey Tree Expert Company from 1984 to 1988 in North Pittsburgh, PA. This diverse background has equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of vegetation management.
Management Responsibilities and Budget Oversight
In his role as Supervisor, Region Forestry, Rich Simpson manages a budget of $30 million dedicated to vegetation management. His responsibilities include overseeing the management of vegetation on distribution lines, ensuring compliance with safety and environmental standards, and optimizing resource allocation for effective operations.
Military Service
Rich Simpson served in the United States Marine Corps as a Corporal in Radio Communications from 1980 to 1982. His military service provided him with valuable skills in communication and leadership, which he has applied throughout his career in forestry and vegetation management.