ACRT Services, a major player in utility vegetation management and related field services, has announced the retirement of longtime CEO Michael Weidner, effective Feb. 18, 2025. Stepping into the interim CEO role is Brad Schroeder, the company’s chief financial officer since 2012.
Weidner’s retirement marks the end of an era. Over nearly 30 years, he has been a key architect of ACRT Services' growth and evolution. His leadership saw the company expand from a single utility vegetation management consultancy into a family of companies offering a broad range of independent services in vegetation management, smart grid support, and environmental consulting.
Weidner’s legacy includes several major milestones:
-
2015: Acquisition of Bermex, enhancing field capabilities in meter reading, damage prevention, and smart meter transitions.
-
2018: Launch of ACRT Services, Inc. and the formation of ACRT Pacific, deepening vegetation management expertise.
-
2021: Acquisition of EnviroScience, adding restoration and environmental compliance to the service portfolio.
-
2024: ACRT Services celebrates 40 years in the industry, maintaining its position as the largest independent, employee-owned UVM company in the U.S.
Throughout his tenure, Weidner championed employee ownership and built a culture grounded in accountability and service excellence. His focus on sustainability and long-term value has made ACRT Services a trusted name among utilities nationwide.
Now, with Schroeder at the helm, the company is poised for continuity and continued momentum. Known for his financial and strategic acumen, Schroeder has been instrumental in shaping ACRT’s growth strategy over the past decade.
“Mike has left an indelible mark on our organization,” said Don Esch, Chairman of the ACRT Services Board of Directors. “His vision and leadership elevated ACRT Services to a position of national influence. As we look to the future, Brad’s steady leadership and deep understanding of our mission make him ideally suited to guide this transition.”
The Board will conduct a search for a permanent CEO, while Schroeder ensures organizational stability and progress.
