Highway department foremen Doug Yaeger and Patrick Urckfitz recognized for leadership and dedication in the January staff spotlight

Penfield, New York – January often brings the harshest conditions of the year, when freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall test both roads and the people responsible for keeping them safe. In Penfield, much of that responsibility falls on the shoulders of two seasoned leaders in the Department of Public Works Highway Department. This month’s Staff Spotlight recognizes Foremen Doug Yaeger and Patrick Urckfitz, whose behind-the-scenes work plays a critical role in keeping the town moving during winter weather.

As highway foremen, Yaeger and Urckfitz are at the center of snow and ice operations. Their days, and often nights, revolve around watching weather forecasts, tracking changing road conditions, and coordinating staff schedules. When a storm approaches, decisions must be made quickly. Whether it is late at night or before dawn, the call to activate plow and salt crews rests with them. The job demands constant attention and a willingness to respond at a moment’s notice, especially during severe winter stretches.

Both men bring valuable experience to the role, though their paths to leadership differ. Yaeger has spent more than two decades working in highway departments throughout Monroe County, building a broad understanding of winter road operations. He joined the Town of Penfield three years ago, bringing that experience with him. Urckfitz, meanwhile, represents a steady rise through the local ranks. Since starting with the Penfield DPW in 2016, he has taken on increasing responsibility and was named a foreman in late 2024.

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Their work is demanding, particularly during long winters when storms seem to arrive back-to-back. Early mornings and overnight call-ins are common, and the margin for error is small. The goal is simple but crucial: make roads passable and safe before residents begin their day. Penfield DPW Director Bob Mohr says the pair consistently meets that challenge.

“It’s a tough job to wake up in the early morning hours to activate a plow run, especially during a really cold and snowy winter like this one, but they handle it well,” said Penfield DPW Director Bob Mohr. “I am lucky to work with both of them, they make my job a lot easier.”

While winter operations are the most visible part of their work, Yaeger and Urckfitz are involved year-round. As the seasons change, so do their responsibilities. During warmer months, they help plan and coordinate paving projects, manage drainage work, and assign crews to maintain sidewalks, gutters, and other essential infrastructure. Their role requires balancing long-term planning with daily operational needs, ensuring projects stay on schedule while responding to unexpected issues.

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Town leaders say that kind of steady leadership is vital to the community. Reliable roads and well-maintained infrastructure affect everything from daily commutes to emergency response times. Town Supervisor Kevin Berry emphasized the importance of the Highway Department and the value of having experienced foremen guiding the work.

“Congratulations to Doug and Patrick on this well-deserved recognition,” said Town Supervisor Kevin Berry. “The Highway Department plays a key role in keeping our roads safe and our community running smoothly. We’re fortunate to have Doug and Patrick helping to lead this important work.”

As winter continues, most residents will simply see clear roads and passable streets, often without considering the planning and effort behind them. This month’s Staff Spotlight offers a reminder that those results come from dedicated professionals like Yaeger and Urckfitz, whose commitment helps keep Penfield safe, season after season.