Asplundh tree experts started with three brothers in 1928. One was a tree trimmer, an electrician, the one who did finances. They were the first company to offer power line clearence for electric companies. This proved to be a smart decision because even during the great depression, Electric/Utility was still rapidly expanding. In 1949 they started to test/manufacture wood/brush chippers, and by 1952 were sold commercially. Chippers was still a standard in the Industry and they were the first. In 1958 they created a bucket truck that had a fiberglass boom. Something that is all still used in the Industry today for lineman/line clearence(this patent was later sold to altec as far as I know.) They are the definition of Industry leaders worldwide, and continue to do so today. All while being privately owned.

In 2017 they were fined $95m for hiring illegal immigrants, the largest fine to date.

This is just a brief summary find more information here http://www.fundinguniverse.com/company-histories/asplundh-tree-expert-co-history/

(Also while I didn’t search much, I think after the New York black out of 1977, it became a federal requirement for power company to maintain their utilities. This was great for them because they were already established, and leading the industry. Double check that, lol it’s just from memory. )

And for anyone who doesn’t know asplundh, they are the big orange trucks that trim trees away from power line.