Thomasville Utilities’ Water Construction Team received statewide attention when they were presented with the Golden Backhoe Award and the Lester E. Feathers Damage Prevention Award at the Georgia Utilities Coordinating Council annual conference in Dillard, Georgia this week.
Each year, the GUCC selects one utility from within each of its seven districts that has demonstrated a commitment to safe digging practices as the recipient of the Golden Backhoe Award. Additionally, one team who has gone above and beyond in their commitment to safety is presented with the Lester E. Feathers Award.
The City of Thomasville Utilities Water Construction Team has been recognized for their attention to safety by the GUCC before, winning the Region 4 Golden Backhoe Award for 10 years straight and the Lester E. Feathers Award a total of seven times.
“We are very honored to have been selected for this distinction for the 10th consecutive year,” said Water Superintendent Stacey Thomas. “I think that it says a great deal about our staff that, year after year, we have continued to be recognized for our attention to safety and damage prevention.”
Every year, utility providers from each district submit award nominations to the GUCC Safety Committee, who then selects award recipients based on many factors, including safety record, total damages and many other work-related criteria.
“All of our utilities staff members are dedicated to serving the community and exceeding expectations,” said Director of Utility Operations Bill Gerber. “Receiving recognition by the GUCC certainly validates the work our team accomplishes for our community. It is an honor to work with such a great team.”