Ross Environmental Services, Inc. 
Art Hargate, of Ross Environmental Services, Inc. (RES), was recently named the fifth 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.
Hargate was presented the award at the Ross companies’ Annual Service Awards event held on Saturday February 20, 2016. Art has been with the companies for more than 28 years in a variety of positions. He served as the Executive Vice President of Finance, Strategy and Business Development prior to assuming his current role of President and CEO of Ross Environmental Services in March, 2007.
“From the very first day, a handshake, a trusting relationship and an open door policy has been his mantra here,” said Bill Cromling III, President of Ross Transportation Services and one of the owners of the Ross Group of companies, in presenting the award to Hargate.
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 28 year commitment to the companies, Hargate was chosen for the award in recognition of his communication, personal development and leadership skills that have helped to mold countless associates at the companies, in addition to his embodiment of the Ross Group values. He has served on the Lorain County Chamber of Commerce Environmental Council and volunteered many years on the Board of Lorain County Goodwill Industries.
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 a number of community organizations and was a living example of the Ross companies’ values in action. Phil was an active and tireless volunteer, athlete, environmentalist and sportsman. He demonstrated his commitment to his coworkers, to health and wellness, to the community and to the environment on a daily basis. Phil passed away in 2011 following a courageous battle with a rare form of cancer.