Erin Givens, Vegetation Management Specialist, began her OUC career last July following eight years at a forestry consulting firm. However, her love for trees goes much further back.
Growing up in Zephyrhills, near Tampa, Givens developed a passion for trees during childhood, when she spent days playing in the woods and learning about nature in her own backyard. Today, the most rewarding part of her job is working with adults and children, and educating them about the importance of vegetation management in their backyard. “Obtaining the line clearance we need for improved reliability starts with educating the community about our vegetation program’s mission,” she said. “We’re committed to becoming the best in the nation, and we’ll get there one tree and one customer at a time.”
Givens loves working for OUC because she feels her core values are fostered here, and she’s excited to be trusted with growing our tree program.
Favorite Project
Givens references The Tree Circus, an event partnership with the Florida Urban Forestry Council as her favorite project. For two weeks, Erin and her colleagues visited local schools to teach students about the importance of trees in their communities.
Responsibilities
Givens has a variety of responsibilities. She serves as our utility arborist, oversees the Davey Tree Contract, and manages the TreeLine USA designation.
Education
Givens holds a bachelor’s degree in forestry and wildlife from the University of Florida.
Proudest OUC Moment
Givens says seeing OUC come together so efficiently to serve customers before, during and after Hurricane Irma. “I think OUC really went above and beyond. It gave me such gratitude to be able to help people in their time of need and be a part of such a hardworking team,” she said.
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