Ross Environmental Services, Inc. 
Nick Pakosz, a 40-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.
Pakosz accepted the award at the Ross companies’ Annual Service Awards banquet held earlier in the year. He began working for RIS in September 1982 as an Incineration Operator. Over the years, he’s contributed to departments that include Operation Support and Receiving. Since 2022, he’s served in a leadership role as a Project Safety Management Coordinator on the Environmental, Health and Safety team.
“Nick’s loyalty is humbling,” said Bill Cromling III, president of Ross Transportation Services and one of the owners of the Ross Group of companies. “We’re thrilled that he’s chosen to be a member of the Ross family for four decades, and his commitment to safe work practices is equally special. He personifies our commitment to safety.”
The Vision Award is presented annually to an associate of the Ross companies who exemplifies a commitment to the companies, the community and the environment.
In addition to his 40-year commitment to the companies, Pakosz is known for a leadership style that has molded countless associates over the years. He embodies the Ross Group values through activism with organizations like the Lorain County Chamber of Commerce, Leadership Lorain County and charity events that benefit cancer research. He volunteers with his church and assists his daughter who trains seeing-eye dogs for the blind.
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.
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.
Nick Pakosz accepts the Phillip T. Schaefer Vision Award from owners Bill Cromling III and Jon Cromling
Left to right: Scott Wesp, Darrell Zielinski, Neil Gorman, Pat Lawson, Nick Pakosz, Steve Goldman, Bob Ward, James Kovelan and Jim Larson.