Four Delaware Electric Cooperative locators honored

Four Delaware Electric Cooperative employees were recognized for their outstanding performance during the 2025 Delmarva 811 Locator Achievement Awards, held April 25 at Harrington Raceway & Casino.

Co-op cable locators Kyle Cephas, Jordan Wescott, Kevin Colborn and Michael Plummer were honored for completing more than 1,000 locate requests for underground power lines in 2024 without a single error or damage — a benchmark that highlights excellence in accuracy, safety and reliability in utility locating.

DEC’s top-performing locator, Wescott, completed 10,252 locate tickets last year, followed by Cephas with 8,182, Plummer with 7,535 and Colborn with 3,952. Utility locating is a high-stakes job that plays a vital role in preventing service interruptions, property damage and injuries. Locators must identify and mark the underground path of electric lines before members or contractors begin any digging project. Challenges include poor weather, difficult terrain and the presence of multiple utility lines.

“This event is designed to make our locators feel appreciated,” said Forrest Jackson, DEC cable locating supervisor. “They not only receive recognition and a certificate, but also a personalized Delmarva 811 jacket, hat and other items from sponsors. It’s about honoring the hard work and dedication they bring to their job every day.”

“I enjoy the satisfaction of helping others and solving problems to make sure contractors can work safely,” said Plummer, who joined DEC in 2023. “Every accurate locate protects people and infrastructure.”

Wescott, a three-year employee with DEC, emphasized the critical nature of the work. “It’s a job that carries responsibility and requires constant attention to detail,” he said. “I like being in the field and knowing the work I do keeps others safe.”

Co-op officials said members should call 811 or visit delmarva811.com to request the location of underground utility lines before any digging project on their property. Notifying 811 is the law, and homeowners who make contact with underground utilities are not just putting themselves in danger but are also responsible for paying for expensive repairs.

Delaware Electric Cooperative is a member-owned electric utility powering more than 300,000 customers in Sussex and Kent counties.