Ross Environmental Services, Inc. 
(Tommy walking to receive his award at our decades-themed service awards event.)
Tom Nichols, a 25-year employee of Ross Incineration Services, Inc. (RIS), has been named the recipient of the Philip T. Schaefer Vision Award by the Ross Group of companies. The Ross Group includes Ross Environmental Services, Inc., Ross Incineration Services, Inc. and Ross Transportation Services, Inc.
The Vision Award is presented annually to an associate of the Ross companies who exemplifies the companies’ mission, vision and values.
Nichols was presented the award at the Ross companies’ Annual Service Awards event held this year on February 17. Nichols is currently an Operations Support Team Lead at RIS.
Nichols’ nomination for the award said he “is known for never hesitating to assist anyone in need. He embodies the Ross Group values through activism with organizations like Wounded Warriors in Action, Toys for Tots, Free Masons and several others. Tommy is recognized for his key role in organizing fundraisers for his fellow associates in need.”
Nichols is a Ross Associate Ambassador and frequently participates in community events both on his own and on behalf of the Ross companies.
Bill Cromling III, president of Ross Transportation Services and co-owner of the Ross Group of companies, presented Nichols his award.
The Vision Award was created by the Ross companies to honor the memory of Philip T. Schaefer, who was the Vice President of Operations for Ross Incineration Services, Inc. at a critical time in the history of the company.
Phil was active in several community organizations and was a true ambassador of the Ross companies’ values. Phil was a tireless volunteer, athlete, environmentalist and sportsman. He demonstrated a daily commitment to his coworkers, health and wellness, the community and the environment. Phil passed away in 2011 after a fearless battle with a rare form of cancer.