Snowplow operators from across the state put their skills to the test in the Nebraska Department of Transportation's (NDOT) annual Snowplow Roadeo held May 22, 2025. The state competition took place at the Nebraska Safety Center in Kearney.
The Snowplow Roadeo is an annual event that starts with local competitions in each of the NDOT's eight districts. From there, the top two teams in the district advance to the state competition for the chance to move ahead and represent Nebraska at the national level. Participants face a series of challenges mimicking various winter road maintenance situations.
"There's a lot that goes into knowing how to clear snow and how to attack a winter storm," said Ben Merchant, NDOT assistant division manager. "Every winter storm is a little different. So, they really have to learn how to have good judgment."
The winners of the 2025 Annual Snowplow Roadeo are Jim Paulsen and Justin Polk of Chappell in District 5. The runners-up were Ryan Kozal and John Saxton of Gordon, also in District 5. The two teams will represent Nebraska at the national competition, held in conjunction with the APWA Western Snow and Ice Conference, Sept. 24-26, 2025, in Loveland, Colo.
"We did some background things, studying for the test and things like that," said Polk. "The driving is the easy part; the whole thing is hard to put together."
"We are proud of all of our teams that participated in this year's Snowplow Roadeo," said Vicki Kramer, NDOT director. "Safety is always our top priority, and events like this give the NDOT the opportunity to showcase that. Every winter, our crews work tirelessly to make sure the roads are safe and open to drivers traveling to work, school and home. Today, our teams showed just how seriously they take that, while also having a little fun. We're excited to have our own talented teams representing Nebraska at the national level."
The NDOT is committed to excellence in winter road maintenance and keeping Nebraskans and visitors safe. The Snowplow Roadeo is just one reminder of the dedication of our snowplow operators and their vital role across the state.
