Two City of Moose Jaw employees has been recognized for their efforts by the Saskatchewan Public Works Association (SPWA).

At their annual convention in Regina last week, manager of utilities Darrin Stephanson was awarded the Professional Manager of the Year Award for Administrative Management.

Stephanson said his work is just a small part of a larger picture.

"We get recognized but let's be honest, we have a ton of staff that do all this great and hard work. We're just part of the people that help coordinate that effort, but a very small part of the effort that takes place."

The award is giving out by the SPWA to recognize outstanding achievements in the area of administration within a public works department and dedication to the public sector.

Along with Stephanson, environmental services supervisor for the City of Moose Jaw Jesse Watamanuk was named Public Works Person of the Year.

Watamanuk says that the award caught him off guard.

"I wasn't planning on going [to the convention], but when I went and I found that news out, it took me by surprise. Mainly because I think a lot of public works people do the same thing I do, you're available to work, you're on call, respond to emergencies as needed, and when things happen you step up and do your job."

Stephanson went on to commend Watamanuk for the good work he's done over the last year.

"The dedication and hard work; people I don't think understand the hard work and hours that go into this, and the consistency that Jesse has in dealing with his staff and dealing with emergency issues. He's been very capable. He's got a good head on his shoulders and he can handle all of that."

The SPWA says the award is to recognize outstanding service as a public works official.

In the private sector, Prestige Environmental won the Meritorious Service Award for its role in providing public works facilities and services.