Fourteen equipment operators from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) have advanced to the Southeastern Regional Equipment Operator’s Safety and Training Conference. This follows their performance in a state-level competition designed to enhance safety and skills among transportation crews responsible for maintaining Kentucky roads.
The event, known as the State Equipment Operators’ Safety and Training Conference or Equipment ‘Roadeo,’ is an annual training exercise where operators from all 12 Department of Highways districts demonstrate their abilities. Governor Andy Beshear commended the participants, stating, “We applaud our state employees for their commitment to safety in our new Kentucky home and congratulate everyone who participated over the two days to hone their skills and share safety practices needed to protect workers and Kentuckians alike.”
Participants qualified by placing first or second in district-level competitions featuring seven obstacle course exercises. The top two finishers will now advance to a regional competition with winners from other states, hosted by KYTC at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington from September 23-25.
KYTC Secretary Jim Gray highlighted the importance of these front-line crews, saying, “Our front-line crews are a critical part of our response across the state, as they operate heavy equipment in all types of weather as we have seen this past year.” He added that the Roadeo not only showcases their skill but also their dedication to safety.
The recent event took place on June 24-25 at the Kentucky Horse Park. Competitors faced challenges testing accuracy, agility, and speed while operating various heavy equipment. District 9’s team from Flemingsburg emerged as overall champions with 291 points. Somerset’s District 8 team followed with 262 points, while Covington’s District 6 team finished third with 257 points.
Individual winners included John Waymire for Tractor Truck with Lowboy Trailer, Todd Myers for Tandem Axle Dump Truck, Josh Garmon for Single Axle Dump Truck, Barry Johnson for Tractor with Mower, Jeremiah Moyers for Backhoe, David Webster for Motor Grader, and Paul Gripshover for Skid Steer.
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