MISS DIG 811 Promotes Future Leadership with Innovative OCEAN 811 Program

In a significant step towards securing the future of leadership in the damage prevention sector, MISS DIG 811 proudly announces that Roni Ahmed, their Director of Information Technology, has triumphed in completing the OCEAN (One Call Executive Apprentice Network) 811 Executive Apprentice Program in June 2026. This notable achievement reiterates the organization's unwavering dedication to cultivating leadership and ensuring long-term stability in a crucial industry. The OCEAN program, which is the only executive leadership initiative tailored for the One Call sector, aims to develop executives equipped to tackle the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Importance of Leadership Transition in the 811 Industry

As the 811 industry stands on the brink of a pivotal transition, more than half of its current executive leaders are expected to retire within the next five to ten years. This impending change induced MISS DIG 811 to proactively invest in the OCEAN program as part of their strategic succession planning. By nurturing the next generation of leaders, the organization aims to provide a seamless transition of service to the residents, businesses, and excavators in Michigan who depend on their essential services. Roni Ahmed’s successful completion of the OCEAN program not only strengthens the leadership bench at MISS DIG 811 but also fortifies the organization’s commitment to maintaining Michigan’s underground utility safety infrastructure.

Insights from Roni Ahmed

Reflecting on his journey through the OCEAN program, Roni Ahmed, who is relatively new to the One Call industry, expressed his gratitude for the chance to learn from seasoned professionals. “The experience offered invaluable insights and deepened my understanding of the industry,” Ahmed remarked. His statement underlines the program's intent to impart practical knowledge while fostering a collaborative learning environment.

Rigor and Selectivity of the OCEAN Program

The OCEAN program spans six competitive months, designed meticulously to shape future leaders in the One Call/811 domain. With only 21 graduates to date since its inception, the program reflects a high level of selectivity and excellence among its participants. The curriculum encompasses over 240 hours of immersive learning, involving direct instruction, real-world case studies, board relations training, and continuous mentorship. Additionally, with class sizes capped at a maximum of 10 participants per cohort, the OCEAN program ensures an intensive and focused educational experience.

The initiative is spearheaded by industry veterans Bill Turner, President and CEO of Tennessee 811, and Chris Stovall, President and CEO of Texas811. Combined, they bring an impressive 59 years of experience in the damage prevention landscape, further enhancing the learning experience for participants. Their commitment to volunteer as instructors highlights the collaborative spirit and shared vision for the future of the 811 industry.

Broader Implications for Damage Prevention

MISS DIG 811's involvement in the OCEAN program is not just a step toward enhancing organizational leadership; it represents a broader commitment to the national damage prevention system. A robust leadership pipeline is integral in ensuring the sustained operational efficiency of the 811 system, which is vital for public safety and the protection of infrastructure. The proactive measures taken by MISS DIG 811 not only showcase its dedication to its operational excellence but also exemplify its mission to uplift the industry as a whole.

For further details regarding MISS DIG 811’s initiatives and commitment to fostering industry leadership and safety, please visit missdig811.org.

This commitment to developing emerging leaders secures not only their organization's future but also contributes significantly to the ongoing safety and reliability of the essential services they provide.