5/8/2024, Charleston, SC – Safe digging practices are essential to prevent damage to underground utilities, ensuring the safety of communities and minimizing disruptions to vital services. To honor those who go above and beyond in promoting safe digging practices, North Carolina 811 along with the NC Utility Coordinating Committee is proud to recognize Eric Prince of Tracer Electronics with the Damage Prevention Most Valuable Professional Award.
The Safe Digging Partner Challenge Coin is designed to recognize individuals, companies, and organizations that exemplify a commitment to promoting the 811 safe digging message. Whether through diligent advocacy within their workplace, educating family and friends, or actively engaging with the public, these champions of damage prevention play a crucial role in safeguarding our infrastructure.
Nominations for the Damage Prevention Most Valuable Professional (MVP) award, facilitated by local UCC/State UCC/NC811 representatives, are for individuals who demonstrate outstanding dedication to safe digging practices and may be nominated based on a set of criteria designed to highlight their contributions. These criteria include:
- Regular attendance at local/state UCC meetings
- Active participation in damage reduction initiatives
- Advocacy for preconstruction conferences and safety training events
- Implementation of company programs for safety and damage prevention
- Collaboration with NC811 on safety training and awareness campaigns
- Successful completion of construction projects with minimal utility interruptions
Eric Prince of Tracer Electronics met the criteria for the MVP designation. Eric was recognized on May 1, 2024, at the annual Joint SC/NC State UCC Conference in Charleston, SC receiving the prestigious Safe Digging Partner Challenge Coin, pledge card and a framed certificate commemorating his status as a Damage Prevention MVP.
“Safe digging is a collective responsibility, and it’s essential to recognize those who lead by example,” said Ann Rushing, Education Manager at North Carolina 811. The Safe Digging Partner Challenge Coin is a symbol of excellence in damage prevention, and we celebrated the efforts of Eric Prince who prioritizes safety and stewardship of our underground infrastructure. “If you have ever had the opportunity to have a conversation with Eric, then you will understand his dedication to damage prevention through knowledge transfer and training. I can’t think of anyone more deserving of the recognition,” said Jason Stover of Dominion Energy, the nominator of the award.
For more information about the Safe Digging Partner Challenge Coin and the Damage Prevention MVP award, please visit Safe Digging Partner Challenge Coin – North Carolina 811 (nc811.org)