Education/Outreach Specialists
A Trusted Resource for Excavators, Utilities, Locators
Sunshine 811 has four education/outreach specialists (formerly known as liaisons) across the state to answer questions, provide educational presentations, and meet with your team on‑site or during safety and crew meetings. Their approach is to explain the 811 process and how the responsibilities of excavators, locators and utility owners come together before, during and after excavation.
By developing a working relationship with your education/outreach specialists, crews and supervisors can:
Get guidance on 811 requirements and best practices
Better understand roles and expectations for excavators, locators and utility owners
Improve ticket quality, including accurate entry, verifying positive response and proper ticket renewals
Strengthen communication among excavators, utilities, locators and other stakeholders
Support safer excavation through shared understanding and coordination
The goal is simple: to help stakeholders work together more effectively to reduce risk, prevent damages and keep jobsites safer.
Supporting safer excavation through education
Common topics:
811 essentials
Accurate tickets
Positive response system
Membership responsibilities
Low Impact Marking requirements
Tolerance zone
Public and private facilities
Violations
Brian Dean | West Region | (727) 424-7778
Brian takes a collaborative approach as a Education/Outreach Specialist appreciating the opportunity to interact with a wide range of stakeholders and learn about their distinct challenges. His work involves building bridges among utility operators, excavators, and local governments, creating a stronger foundation for communication and safety throughout the one-call system.
Outside of work, Brian loves spending time with his family, cheering on the Rays, experimenting with new recipes while cooking and grilling, and taking road trips or extended travels across the country.
Hometown: Woodstock, Illinois
Counties Served: Charlotte, Citrus, Desoto, Glades, Hendry, Hardee, Hernando, Hillsborough, Lee, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas, Sarasota
Brad Martin | North Region | (850) 508-4519
Brad serves as the education/outreach specialist for North Florida, where he excels in facilitating meaningful dialogue with stakeholders. With a talent for uncovering insights through open conversations, Brad values the chance to learn from different perspectives while fostering trust and cooperation across the one-call network.
Fun Fact: Brad attended Florida State University and was a proud member of The World Renowned Florida State University Marching Chiefs, playing trombone (Bone players rock!) —a talent he’s honed since 4th grade. He continues to play with The Lofty Pursuits Community Marching Band, sponsored by Lofty Pursuits Ice Cream & Candy.
Outside of work, Brad enjoys participating in community events, particularly those involving trombone performances. When not making music, he loves spending time in the kitchen, perfecting his cooking skills.
Hometown: Waycross, Georgia
Counties Served: Alachua, Baker, Bay, Bradford, Calhoun, Clay, Columbia, Dixie, Duval, Escambia, Franklin, Gadsden, Gilchrist, Gulf, Hamilton, Holmes, Jackson, Jefferson, Lafayette, Leon, Levy, Liberty, Madison, Nassau, Okaloosa, Putnam, Santa Rosa, St. Johns, Suwannee, Taylor, Union, Wakulla, Walton, Washington
Elliot Patterson | Central Region | (352) 603-0015
Elliot is a dedicated education/outreach specialist committed to creating safer communities by promoting the importance of calling 811 before digging. With a knack for problem-solving, he enjoys finding innovative ways to address underground utility safety challenges. Based in Central Florida, Elliot takes pride in engaging with the region’s dynamic cities and fostering partnerships that emphasize safety as a shared responsibility.
When he’s not on the job, Elliot stays active by playing flag football, hitting the gym, and recharging at home. His commitment to safety and his approachable, solution-focused demeanor make him a valuable resource for anyone navigating the world of underground utility protection.
Hometown: Trenton, New Jersey
Counties Served: Brevard, Flagler, Highlands, Lake, Marion, Orange, Osceola, Polk, Seminole, Sumter, Volusia
John Segovia | South Region | (954) 789-5624
John brings energy and enthusiasm to his role as a education/outreach specialist, where he focuses on building lasting connections and inspiring action. Passionate about public safety, he enjoys the opportunity to collaborate with South Florida’s vibrant and diverse communities, helping spread awareness that benefits countless people beyond his immediate reach.
Fun Fact: Although born in Manhattan, NYC, John has strong ties to his Ecuadorian heritage through his parents.
Outside of work, John cherishes time with his family and their two Chiweenies. He stays busy supporting his youngest son, a high school percussionist, during band competitions, parades, and concerts. A lifelong drummer and percussionist himself, John loves playing music, whether at home or with fellow musicians. An avid traveler, he has explored the U.S., five European countries, the Caribbean, and South America with his wife and family.
Hometown: Allentown, Pennsylvania
Counties Served: Broward, Collier, Miami-Dade, Indian River, Martin, Monroe, Okeechobee, Palm Beach, St. Lucie