Staff Spotlight – Josh Sikes

Josh Sikes

Team Member since February 14, 2008

Latest Achievement: Class A CDL License

Primarily working as an operator-in-training for the BGJWSC now, Josh started working with us as a construction team member laying sewer lines back in 2008.  His background in electrical contracting in commercial construction made him a good fit in the construction and maintenance side of utility work.  He joined the BGJWSC while looking to cut back on the travel time involved in seeking new construction projects.

The transport of heavy equipment and tools, such as backhoe, front end loader, excavator, and materials such as pipes and large valves requires the BGJWSC to maintain a licensed CDL driver to operate tractor trailer rigs and dump trucks. With the added experience there is an added responsibility for adherence to safety regulations. Even when responding to emergencies, our CDL drivers must be aware of proper rigging, balancing of loads and speed concerns with shifting loads. Taking safety as priority number one within our organization, all drivers, whether CDL licensed or not, maintain strict adherence to a no drug or alcohol policy.

Using the self-study method of instruction provided by TruckCounty.com, Josh studied the materials while operating under supervisor Derrick Simmons’ instruction for the time period that he had his learners permit, passing the practical on-road test within two months of beginning the course.   Getting his CDL has allowed Josh to split the transport responsibilities with Derrick, bringing some relief to the hectic pace of installing and maintaining our water distribution infrastructure.

Editor’s Note – As a new permanent feature of our public service announcements posted here, we will be sharing our staff accomplishments with you on a regular basis. As we celebrate with them the achievements that they have made professionally, such as certification, licensing and college degree completion, we’d like to draw your attention to them.