It’s said that the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. And in utility forester Konner Standley’s case, it stayed right in the forest. His connection to forestry dates back to childhood, when his father worked in the exact same role Konner holds today.
“I remember going to Take Your Kid to Work Day with my father and thinking how cool his job was, especially all the equipment he got to use,” Konner recalls.
His father, Stephen Standley, has been with AEP Ohio for more than 30 years, starting in forestry before transitioning to line operations. Inspired by that legacy, Konner followed in his footsteps and pursued a career in forestry, officially joining the AEP Ohio team.
“I’m very proud to see Konner follow in my footsteps as a forester,” said Stephen. “From a young age, he has always been a loyal leader and a great problem-solver. His passion, dedication, and understanding of this business have truly set him apart.”
Protecting the Grid
As a utility forester for AEP Ohio, Konner helps ensure power remains reliable for customers in the Lancaster, Logan, Wellston and Pomeroy areas. Whether in the office or out in the field, he plays an essential role in AEP Ohio’s forestry maintenance program — overseeing local tree crews as they proactively inspect trees and branches near distribution power lines to help prevent future power outages in the community.
When disaster strikes, Konner also deploys with storm restoration teams to help areas impacted by severe weather. A few years ago, he spent 17 days in Asheville, North Carolina, clearing downed trees in a flooded area without any running water.
Whether supporting storm work or routine maintenance, Konner notes one skill that’s essential for the job: patience. “In this line of work, change is constant — priorities, technology, and of course, weather,” Konner said. “The best you can do is let change play out and learn to be patient. From there, everything else is easy.”
A New Legacy
Beyond his work as a utility forester, Konner is a devoted husband and father to four. He takes pride in providing for his family, as his father did for him. “Just as I was inspired by my father’s work, I see that same hardworking mindset in my own children,” he said.
At the end of the day, Konner remains deeply committed to keeping trees, our power lines, and customers safe. “Our job is about more than protecting our equipment; it’s about helping people feel safe,” said Konner.
Learn more about the role of the forestry team at AEPOhio.com/Trees.
