NUCA of the Carolinas Presents Ditch Digger Award

NUCA of the Carolinas awarded its most prestigious award during its fall conference held in October in Pinehurst, N.C. Jerry Smith, Executive Vice President with T.A. Loving Co. (TALCO), was the recipient of Ditch Digger of the Year for his long-time leadership in many sectors of the Carolina construction industry as well as his community.

Smith also serves as Board of Director member Ex-Officio for NUCA of the Carolinas and is a tireless advocate for the Common Ground Alliance (CGA) and Underground Damage Prevention.

Smith began working for Bob Loving in the Utility Department of TALCO in September 1967. He served as superintendent, project manager and was named co-manager of the utility division along with Donald Robinson in 1988. Smith has worked for TALCO for 45 years.

Smith was a member of the Jaycees in Goldsboro, N.C., where he served on the Board of Directors. He was an original member of the North Carolina Burn Center and was designated as outstanding Jaycee of the Year in 1972. Jerry was appointed to the North Carolina Licensing Board of General Contractors by Governor Mike Easley in 2005 and now serves as Chairman of the Board. He has been a long-term member of Carolina AGC, served on many committees, chaired the Utility Division and now serves as Chairman of the Board.

Smith resides in Goldsboro with his darling wife of 49 years, Agnes. They have two sons, Eddie and Jeff.

Congratulations to Jerry Smith for all of the countless hours and dedication to the underground industry and his community. He truly is a pioneer that leads by example and a great mentor to everyone who makes his living “Digging in the Dirt.” Thanks Jerry!

Attention NUCA Members:

Has your chapter been involved in an event or activity that makes you proud and want to to share it with other industry leaders? Then, let us hear about it! We know you do a lot for your community and the underground utility industry as a whole. From fundraisers and volunteering to educational scholarships and employee certifications, we’d like to share your story in the pages of Utility Contractor.

Send the topic and your chapter name to anne@nuca.com or call 703.358.9300. Voice your pride in what your association does. It’s important, and other industry leaders should know about it