Union, management celebrate Team Up ODOT's 10th Anniversary

President Parks offers encouragement in challenging times; OCSEA's Sandy Trout recognized for quality contributions

PHOTO GALLERY

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May 9, 2008 - Front line workers and managers from across the state gathered yesterday at the Ohio Expo Center for Team Up ODOT. This year's event marked the 10th anniversary. View the full agenda.

Sponsored in partnership by OCSEA and Ohio Department of Transportation, Team Up ODOT gives the agency's districts the opportunity to share their experiences with other state employees

It's also an opportunity to recognize workers for their quality efforts and innovations from the past year.

In his opening remarks, OCSEA President Parks acknowledged the serious economic challenges facing state government and its public employees who strive to deliver quality road services.

Parks encouraged labor and management counterparts alike, "What these things mean is that we need to be creative and we need to look at improving the way we get the job done. Every one of us can be a contributor to making a positive difference."

The union president also spoke of the Governor’s Efficiency Review and Continuous Improvement Initiative, noting it is one very important pathway to getting everyone involved. He closed with this simple quote: “To succeed – do the best you can, where you are, with what you have.”

This year, ODOT and OCSEA presented a special TOP award to a union employee who has helped make this event a success for the last decade. Sandy Trout has been instrumental in supporting quality efforts statewide and especially in ODOT.

Rachel Livengood, Deputy Director of Quality and Human Resources, said of Trout, "Without a doubt, we consider OCSEA Administrative Assistant Sandy Trout to be our most valuable player. Her dedication, support and hands-on approach to getting things done have helped make this event successful over the years. With love and deep appreciation, this special TOP award is presented to Sandy Trout."

President Parks and ODOT Director James G. Beasley presented the award to Trout, who co-chairs the Ohio Quality Network and the Union Quality Network and coordinates many educational and training opportunities including the Pathways to Excellence events.

See Related

Photo Album of 2008 Team Up ODOT

Opening remarks of Eddie L. Parks, OCSEA President

OCSEA's Sandy Trout recognized for quality contributions to ODOT, State of Ohio

Ohio Department of Transportation

OCSEA / ODOT Assembly Officers

OCSEA / ODOT Toolbox

About the Ohio Quality Network