Values at Work: 2025 MVV Award Winners at Xylem 

At Xylem Tree Experts, our work in the field is guided by more than experience. It’s driven by our Mission, Vision, and Values (MVV). These principles shape how we operate, serve our customers, and support one another every day.

Last year, CEO Randolph Hoover announced the launch of the Xylem 2025 Mission, Vision, and Values Recognition Program and Employee of the Year Contest. The program was created to recognize the contributions of operational teammates in the field, from crew members to general forepersons, who exemplify our core values in their work and interactions with clients, customers, and one another.

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 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 16 employees, who received a $250 Arborwear gift card.

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

We are proud to recognize the four individuals whose leadership and dedication represent the very best of Xylem.

Trust:

James Smith, General Foreperson (Region 4) 

For James Smith, trust is something that’s earned through consistency and follow-through. He has set that standard since the early days of Xylem. Known for his work ethic and commitment to his team, James approaches every decision with a sense of ownership, ensuring his crews are prepared and ready to succeed. As Regional Manager Wayne Phillips shared, “Every decision he makes for this company he makes like it was his own company.” James’ leadership reflects the reliability and accountability that build trust across every level of the organization. 

Transparency:

Michael Wheeler, General Foreperson (Region 7) 

Transparency is about clear communication, accountability, and consistency. Michael Wheeler demonstrates all three. In his role, Michael ensures jobs are executed smoothly while maintaining open and honest communication, giving both his crew and leadership confidence in the work being done. As Regional Business Partner Aaron Bryant shared, “You give him any job, it gets done, and you know it’s being run right.” Michael’s ability to communicate when it matters and follow through consistently defines transparency in the field.

Respect:

Jay Samayoa, General Foreperson (Region 2) 

The way Jay Samayoa leads and supports those around him has earned him the respect of both his team and customers. From starting as a bucket operator to becoming a trusted General Foreperson, Jay has built strong relationships with his team and customers through accountability and care. As Regional Manager Carl Bane shared, “He’s everything you want in a leader. I trust him with everything… you won’t meet a more respectful person.” Jay’s leadership sets the tone for professionalism and respect across every job.

Unity:

Richard Moore, Foreperson (Region 12)

Unity is about bringing people together to achieve a shared goal, and Richard Moore has built his leadership around that principle. When asked to relocate and support a new project, Richard stepped in and built a team from the ground up, creating an environment where crews worked together seamlessly. As Regional Manager Caitlin Knox shared, “He created an environment where people supported each other, communicated well, and took pride in the work they were doing.” Richard’s leadership demonstrates how strong teams are built—and how unity drives success.

Employee of the Year 

From this group, we are proud to recognize Jay Samayoa, General Foreperson (Region 2), as Xylem’s 2025 Employee of the Year. Jay’s leadership, dedication, and the respect he’s earned from both his team and customers set him apart, reflecting the very best of Xylem in the field. 

Recognizing Leadership in the Field 

Our 2025 MVV Award winners represent the best of Xylem — leaders who show up every day with integrity, accountability, and commitment to their teams. Their impact is felt not only in the work they do, but in the people they support and the culture they help build. 

We are proud to announce that the MVV Program continues in 2026, providing ongoing opportunities for field team members across every region to be recognized. From crew members to general forepersons, all operational employees are eligible to participate through regional nominations to reinforce our commitment to recognizing those who bring our values to life every day.