Uniontown, PA – At a ceremony today, Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) Secretary Mike Carroll recognized 30 PennDOT employees for their outstanding performance with the Star of Excellence Award, PennDOT’s highest recognition. Two employees from PennDOT’s District 12, which represents Fayette, Greene, Washington and Westmoreland counties were among the honorees.
Our employees work hard to provide the very best transportation services to Pennsylvanians, and the millions of people who travel through the Commonwealth every day,” said Carroll. “Our Stars of Excellence exemplify a dedication to public service and a strong work ethic, and I’m proud to honor them today.”
Local winners Toni Hartley and Sean Sepe were honored this afternoon at an awards luncheon at the National Civil War Museum in Harrisburg.
“I am proud to recognize Toni and Sean with this award,” said District Executive Rachel Duda. “Their leadership, dedication, and commitment to their work are great examples of the people who make District 12 successful.”
Toni Hartley, Training Coordinator, Toni has made an extraordinary impact on PennDOT through her dedication to employee development, collaboration, and organizational excellence. She is a trusted leader who has supported multiple districts, mentored training coordinators across the Commonwealth, and developed innovative training programs that strengthen PennDOT’s workforce. Toni has played a key role in advancing career development, improving employee engagement, and fostering an inclusive workplace where every employee has the opportunity to succeed. She is recognized statewide for her expertise, willingness to share knowledge, and commitment to public service. Beyond her training responsibilities, Toni supports quality management initiatives, workforce development, and numerous district programs that enhance employee growth and organizational success. Her exceptional communication, leadership, and passion for mentoring have earned the respect of coworkers, partners, and leadership alike. Toni exemplifies PennDOT’s commitment to excellence and is a deserving recipient of this distinguished recognition.
Sean Sepe, Project Manager, whose leadership, technical expertise, and commitment to public service have made a lasting impact on PennDOT District 12 and the communities it serves. He consistently goes above and beyond to improve safety, accelerate project delivery, and enhance mobility through innovative problem-solving and collaboration. Sean has successfully advanced complex projects ahead of schedule while identifying cost-saving opportunities and building consensus among stakeholders. As the District’s guiderail mentor, he is a trusted resource who ensures safe, practical solutions that keep projects moving. He is equally dedicated to developing the next generation of engineers, volunteering as a mentor and providing guidance that has helped numerous Civil Engineer Trainees succeed. Whether improving roadway safety, supporting municipalities, or investing in his coworkers, Sean exemplifies PennDOT’s values of service, teamwork, and excellence, making him a truly deserving recipient of this award.
The Star of Excellence Awards are presented annually to employees who represent the department’s values of service, performance and integrity. The recipients represent a variety of organizational positions, spanning from highway maintenance and driver and vehicle services workers, to traffic control specialists, engineers and more.
For more information, visit www.penndot.pa.gov/District12 or call 724-415-3748.
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MEDIA CONTACT: Melissa Maczko, mmaczko@pa.gov or 724-415-3748
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