Bring on the Snow … We’ll Be Ready

If a snowflake tried to fall in the heat of a Missouri summer, it would never make it to the ground. But once winter rolls around, our crews will have to be prepared for the challenges brought on by snow, ice and sleet. That’s why MoDOT maintenance staff will soon be putting their noses to the grindstone, or should we say asphalt, to train well in advance for the next snow fight.

The MoDOT Snow Academy will ensure workers have the knowledge and skills that are necessary to remove snow and ice safely, effectively and efficiently.

“With the Snow Academy, our crews can better tailor the training exercises to the needs of their area and their personnel,” said System Management Director Don Hillis.

Each district will host a Snow Academy in September or October in preparation for winter operations. District supervisory staff will serve as judges.

Since the Snow Academy is a training assessment program, all full-time maintenance staff and other full-time staff who are routinely called on to plow snow will be required to participate. Results will be used to identify additional employee training needs.

“The Snow Academy will provide a more comprehensive training,” Hillis said. “Our Maintenance crews will have everything they need to be fully prepared for the winter season.” Everything, that is, except the white stuff.