NDOT Announces Winners of 2026 Annual Snowplow Roadeo
May 27, 2026 (Kearney, Neb.) — Wednesday, Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) snowplow operators from across the state gathered in Kearney to compete in a series of challenges testing their precision and driving skills in the annual Snowplow Roadeo. The statewide competition took place at the Nebraska Safety Center Driving Range in Kearney.
The Snowplow Roadeo starts with local competitions in each of the NDOT’s eight districts. The top two teams from each district advance to the state competition in Kearney, where they compete to represent Nebraska at the national level.
Participants compete in teams of two and must complete a pre-trip inspection to identify issues with their snowplow, take a timed written test, and navigate an obstacle course designed to simulate various winter road maintenance situations.
“The Snowplow Roadeo gives our operators a chance to put their training and experience to the test in realistic scenarios,” said Tom Renninger, NDOT Operations Division Head. “From inspections to precision driving courses, teams are evaluated on their attention to detail, precision, and problem-solving skills, much like the work they perform during a winter storm.”
The winners of the 2026 Snowplow Roadeo are Sandra Postnikoff, from Arapahoe, and Andrew Zajic, from Alma, in District 7. The runners-up were Bill Weller and Travis Magary from Springview in District 8. The two teams will represent Nebraska at the national competition, held in conjunction with the APWA Western Snow and Ice Conference, from Sept. 30-Oct. 2 in Loveland, Colo.
“We are proud of all of the teams that competed in this year’s Snowplow Roadeo and are excited to see how our winners compete at the national level,” said NDOT Director Vicki Kramer. “In addition to friendly competition, this event gives us the opportunity to show that safety is our number one priority. Every winter, drivers on Nebraska roads trust our snowplow operators to work safely while helping keep others safe during challenging conditions. We are proud to have these teammates representing NDOT.”