SRU student named Workplace Hero by PennDOT

Aug. 27, 2019

Jacob Southwick, a Slippery Rock University sophomore industrial and systems engineering major from Titusville, was awarded the Workplace Hero honor by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.

Southwick, who was working as a summer intern for PennDOT, and another intern helped free a Vernon Township man who had become trapped beneath a tractor in July. Southwick and his coworker, who were nearby inspecting a construction detour sign, helped lift the tractor that had tipped over and pinned the man to the ground before medical personnel could arrive.

Recipients who earn the Workplace Hero award are PennDOT employees who, during work hours, take action to prevent severe injury or the death of a coworker or member of the public.