The Man Behind the Monster Jam PSA Opportunity
A Driving Force in Damage Prevention
In the dynamic world of damage prevention, certain individuals emerge as catalysts for change, their dedication and leadership propelling safety standards forward. This quarter, the spotlight shines brightly on Lynsay Demko, Damage Prevention Administrator, Southwest Gas Corporation,whose profound impact on enhancing safety, efficiency, and collaboration across the utility safety industry has earned her the esteemed title of Damage Prevention Hero.
Raymond Sonnier, Damage Prevention Coordinator at Louisiana 811, passionately articulates why Lynsay is a true leader: “In the damage prevention industry, there are individuals whose dedication and leadership drive safety standards forward, reducing risks and protecting communities.” Lynsay is “a true leader in enhancing safety, efficiency, and collaboration across the industry.”
Lynsay’s unwavering commitment to process improvement has yielded remarkable results throughout her career. Her strategic vision has led to the successful streamlining of multi-state programs and the seamless integration of teams across eight different states. Furthermore, her expertise has been instrumental in developing state-specific damage prevention and public awareness programs that resonate deeply with diverse audiences. Her comprehensive knowledge spanning regulatory compliance, excavation safety, and meticulous program management has made her an invaluable asset to the industry as a whole.
Her list of notable achievements is extensive and impactful. Lynsay has directed and produced essential bilingual technical training videos focused on excavation safety, ensuring critical information reaches a wider audience. She has led over 100 safety training sessions, directly educating countless professionals on best practices. Her capabilities also extend to managing multi-million-dollar natural gas contracts, demonstrating her prowess in both operational and strategic capacities.
A testament to her influence on policy and practice, Lynsay played a pivotal role in updating the Washington State Dig Law, a critical piece of legislation that enhances safety. She also contributed significantly to the development of Oregon’s statewide damage prevention training specifically for contractors, equipping them with the knowledge necessary for safe excavation. Beyond direct training and legislative efforts, her innovative approach to communication is evident in the remarkable 830% increase in company website traffic in just one year, achieved through strategic marketing initiatives. This highlights her understanding that awareness is a cornerstone of prevention.
Kevin M. Lang, P.E., Vice President of Engineering Staff at Southwest Gas, offers a personal testament to Lynsay’s infectious enthusiasm. “Lynsay is a passionate voice in the damage prevention world. Her passion for promoting 811 and damage prevention has a way of ‘infecting’ you.”
This sentiment underscores her ability to inspire and motivate those around her, turning colleagues into advocates for safety. Lang notes his pleasure in working with her at Southwest Gas over the past several years, witnessing her impact firsthand.
Sonnier reiterates Lynsay’s core strengths: “Lynsay is a driving force in risk reduction and safety enhancement. Her collaborative approach unites stakeholders across states, ensuring damage prevention and safety remain top priorities. She exemplifies the qualities we seek in a Damage Prevention Hero.”
Shane Thacker, Director, Safety, Quality, Training & Qualifications at Southwest Gas notes, “Damage prevention at Southwest Gas relies on a strong team of damage prevention leaders who collaborate to drive results. Lynsay Demko is an integral member of that team, and her primary role is to oversee the policy and procedures related to damage prevention and ensure the team’s alignment with goals and strategy across the five operational areas.”
Thacker emphasized, “Her success is rooted in strong relationships, meeting commitments, and maintaining integrity and professionalism. She takes her role as a damage prevention leader very seriously, working diligently to align damage prevention goals within our company’s strategy and staying actively engaged in the industry to help others succeed. Lynsay is an asset; her persistence and attention to detail are crucial as she thoroughly evaluates situations to find ideal solutions. Southwest Gas is fortunate to have Lynsay on the team as we strive to achieve zero damages.”
Lynsay Demko is more than just a dedicated professional; she is a visionary leader who consistently pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in damage prevention. Her ability to innovate, collaborate, and educate across multiple states and diverse audiences solidifies her position as a truly deserving Damage Prevention Hero. Her ongoing contributions will undoubtedly continue to shape a safer future for underground infrastructure and the communities it serves.
Fred Johnson (Q2, 2025)
A Legacy of Leadership in Mississippi Damage Prevention
The damage prevention community in Mississippi is celebrating a true champion with the announcement of Fred Johnson of Mississippi 811 as the 2025 Q2 Damage Prevention Hero. For many years, Fred has been acornerstone of the state’s efforts to ensure excavation safety and protect vital underground infrastructure. As he has recently celebrated his achievements through retirement, the outpouring of respect and appreciation from colleagues underscores the profound and lasting impact he has had on the industry.
James Keith, Gas Division Operations Manager at TL Wallace Construction, fondly recalls meeting Fred three years ago. “He is the type of person you like as soon as you meet him,” Keith shares, emphasizing Fred’s immediate warmth and engaging personality. Keith credits Fred with opening his eyes to the
critical importance of damage prevention through his invitation to join 811 legislative meetings and participate on a panel as an excavator to help with the dig laws. “He is a great leader and will leave a
legacy of knowledge to those he mentored during his tender in the damage prevention industry,” Keith adds, lamenting that he hadn’t met Fred earlier in his career. He also notes Fred’s exceptional ability to connect people, stating, “I also have him to thank for all the wonderful people I have met through him; he keeps great company.”
Bill Rutledge, MS Rural Water & Public Works Liaison, who has worked alongside Fred at MS811 for fifteen years, speaks to Fred’s unparalleled expertise. “Under the leadership of Fred, [he] was the one to go to for the definition of the dig laws to be exact, not assumed!” Rutledge highlights the personal sacrifices Fred and his brother Sam made for the operation of MS811, concluding emphatically, “I know of no other that is more deserving than Fred Johnson as Damage Prevention Hero. God Bless Him.”
Sandy Sanford, Mississippi Damage Prevention Committee Lobbyist, praises Fred Johnson: A Legacy of Leadership in Mississippi Damage Prevention Fred’s exceptional interpersonal and leadership skills. “Fred has the ideal demeanor and leadership skills to navigate damage prevention challenges,” Sanford states. Beyond his extensive knowledge, Fred’s ability to listen and develop fair and simple solutions stands out. “Whether dealing with utilities, locaters, excavators, local governments, legislators, or others, Fred treats the impacted stakeholder with respect, seeks solutions that are fair and simple, and executes the remedial plan as quickly as possible.” Sanford further emphasizes Fred’s selfless dedication, noting that he is “solely focused on damage prevention processes and outcomes, and never on personal recognition or accolades.”
Jerry Kennemur, MS811 Damage Prevention Coordinator, who has known Fred for over four decades and worked with him for twenty, speaks to his enduring character and deep knowledge. “Fred has always been a man with integrity and high moral character,” Kennemur affirms. “With Fred you always knew where you stood and if you needed help, he would be there. I think he could quote the Dig Law by heart and was always willing to help with any issue that might come up.” Kennemur also touches on Fred's engaging personality, adding, “Fred has a dry humor about him that you can’t help but like.”
Fred Johnson’s career at Mississippi 811 has been marked by his unwavering commitment to damage prevention, his exceptional leadership qualities, his deep understanding of the dig laws, and his genuine care for the people he works with. As he embarks on retirement, Fred leaves behind a legacy of knowledge, mentorship, and a profound dedication to safety that will continue to benefit the state of Mississippi for years to come. He is a truly deserving recipient of the 2025 Q2 Damage Prevention Hero award.
Leading with Vision: Kesley Tweed and the Future of Pipeline Safety
Kesley Tweed, Executive Director of the Pipeline Association for Public Awareness (PAPA), has been named the Q1 2025 Damage Prevention Hero! Tweed's unwavering dedication to public safety and innovative approach to damage prevention have made a significant impact on the industry.
Throughout her career, Tweed has demonstrated a true drive for finding unique ways to engage stakeholders. "Kesley has been passionate about finding inspiring and creative ways to engage with the public...to enhance public safety, improve emergency preparedness, protect the environment, and prevent damage to property and facilities," says Ryan Nelson, Damage Prevention Program Specialist at Enbridge.
Tweed's leadership at PAPA has been transformative. "With her extensive background in strategic communications, stakeholder engagement, and public outreach in the pipeline industry, she has transformed the way we connect with key audiences," explains Dillon Ohrt, SR/WA, Right of Way and Public Awareness Coordinator at Suncor Energy (U.S.A.) Pipeline Company.
Under Tweed's guidance, PAPA has embraced new technologies to enhance its outreach efforts. "She has championed the use of new technology, such as geofencing, to enhance our message’s reach and impact," says Ohrt. This innovative approach, combined with Tweed's focus on fostering collaborations, has brought new voices into the damage prevention conversation.
Tweed's impact extends beyond technological advancements. She has revitalized existing programs, such as developing additional in-language safety materials and expanding online training videos. "She’s brought new life to long-standing, well-established programs with her experienced perspective and drive for continuous growth," says Courtney Jordt, Damage Prevention Specialist, Pacific Gas & Electric Co.
Tweed is also a strong advocate for 811, presenting at CGA Conferences and guiding pipeline and utility operators in the development of the annual excavator magazine. Lori Warner, Former President of PAPA and retired Public Safety Coordinator at Xcel Energy, emphasizes Tweed's leadership qualities: "Kesley is a strategic and innovative leader that is open to ideas and a true champion for pipeline and utility safety and awareness."
Tweed's commitment to public safety extends beyond her professional role. She is a passionate life/career coach, dedicated to helping others live fulfilling lives. This dedication to personal and professional growth further exemplifies her commitment to enhancing the well-being of individuals and communities.
Kesley Tweed's innovative leadership, unwavering dedication to public safety, and commitment to continuous improvement make her a true Damage Prevention Hero. Her contributions to the industry have had a profound impact, and her influence will continue to inspire future generations of damage prevention professionals.