The Kemp West Team

Kari and his wife, Ruth Ann, have owned the business since 1995. Kari is responsible for shaping organizational values and moving the mission of Kemp West forward. Kari is blessed to come from a large family and has 6 of his own kids with grandkids adding up – a lot of companions for his favorite activities of camping and riding in the mountains.

Gary’s lifelong career with Kemp West started in 1990 when he left his job in the tire business and joined a tree crew. Promotions soon followed putting Gary in the position of managing field operations and crew management. Gary has earned a reputation as a caring leader who makes sure customers’ expectations are met. Gary and his wife have two children and enjoy camping, traveling and golf.

Caitlin started with Kemp West in 2012 and works as part of the leadership team to ensure that strategic initiatives are achieved, and organizational values maintained. Caitlin is committed to the preservation of trees and brings her background in environmental science to her consulting work. She is also a self-proclaimed “nature nerd”, and her happy place is being shoulder to shoulder with strangers at a rock show.

Ian joined the Kemp West team in 2017 and has loved the journey. From learning to tie a bowline knot, to advanced climbing and rigging techniques, he has enjoyed the dynamic field of powerline clearance. As the Workforce Development Manager, Ian is working with crew members, and apprentices to maintain a great work culture, and the excellent product our clients have come to expect. Away from work, Ian enjoys slow mornings with his wife, two kids, and dog.

Joel came to Kemp West in 2007 as an assistant mechanic. Supporting the large Kemp West fleet was a natural fit for Joel’s personality and talents, leading to a promotion to Fleet Manager in 2010. In 2014, Joel, received his degree from Lake Washington Institute of Technology in Diesel / Heavy Equipment Repair. Joel owns a sailboat and is happiest when he’s on the water with his family, cruising around the San Juan Islands.

Cale’s journey with Kemp West began in 2011 when he started with us as an apprentice tree trimmer. Over his tenure, his thoughtful leadership and dedication to the craft has made him an invaluable member of the leadership team. Cale enjoys time with his family, including his wife, and adorable dog Kirby.

Dave joined Kemp West in 2004. His background includes US Navy, and Seattle City Light as a line worker. Dave is in charge of supervising teams on Snohomish County PUD projects. Dave lives with his family in Sedro Wooley and is forever trying to keep up with his son's ever-changing hobbies.

Rick came to Kemp West in 1988 from the logging industry. With his work ethic and talent for leadership, Rick quickly grew to be a key part of the success of Kemp West. Away from work, Rick can be found working on home remodeling projects or crabbing on the Oregon Coast.

Sarah began with Kemp West in 2022 where she immediately fit right in. Sarah brings a unique warmth and dedication to her role. Known for her attention to detail and care in supporting the team, she plays a vital part in keeping operations running smoothly. Outside of work, she enjoys spending quality time with her family and staying active by keeping up with her daughter's many extracurricular activities.

Crystal joined Kemp West as the Staff Accountant in June 2024 and has quickly become known for her thoroughness and attention to detail. Her dedication ensures accuracy and reliability in all financial aspects of the business. Outside of work, she enjoys relaxing with her two dogs and spending time gaming with her partner, Mike.