Awards of Distinction

Alan Byrd is operations superintendent for App State's New River Light and Power (NRLP), where he has worked since 1998.

Byrd oversees the daily operations of linecrews and maintains infrastructure that delivers electricity to approximately 9,000 customers at App State's Boone campus, the town of Boone and surrounding areas. He also carries out a variety of other duties, including safety training and oversight of vehicle repair work.

"Alan Byrd is the epitome of leadership," a nominator and colleague said. "Alan's unwavering commitment to continuous learning and growth, coupled with his dedication to coaching and mentoring others, sets him apart as an exceptional leader in our organization."

The nominator noted that one of Byrd's standout qualities is his willingness to volunteer in the community, stating that he is a regular at public outreach events, including Watauga County Emergency Fest and Hardin Park Elementary School's Eagle Fest.

Byrd is a second-generation lineworker who followed in his father's footsteps. His career as a lineworker dates back to 1993, when he started working for Pike Electric.