Massachusetts Students Invited to Get Creative in Snowplow Naming Contest

The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) has officially launched its annual “Name-A-Snowplow” contest, inviting elementary and middle school students to participate for the fourth consecutive year. The contest aims to gather creative names for twelve snowplows that will serve the state during the upcoming winter season of 2025/2026.

According to a statement from MassDOT, the initiative encourages students to showcase their creativity and appreciation for the essential services provided by snowplow operators. Previous winning names have included playful puns such as Snowana, Control-Salt-Delete, and Ice Ice Baby, reflecting the fun spirit of the contest.

Contest Details and Submission Process

Classrooms across Massachusetts are invited to submit their imaginative names for the snowplows. Names must be submitted by 5 p.m. on December 5, 2025, through an online portal available on the MassDOT website. Schools can submit an unlimited number of entries, allowing for broad participation.

A selection panel composed of MassDOT employees will review the submissions and select two winners from each of the six Highway Division districts. Entries will be evaluated based on two grade-level categories: kindergarten through fourth grade, and fifth grade through eighth grade.

Announcement of Winners and Prizes

The winning names will be revealed by December 19, 2025. Each winner will receive a $100 gift card for school supplies. Additionally, the twelve chosen names will be assigned to corresponding MassDOT snowplows, which will feature the names throughout their service life.

Winners will also have the opportunity to participate in a snowplow unveiling event, further connecting them to their contributions. This initiative not only fosters creativity among students but also emphasizes the vital role of the Department of Transportation in maintaining safe winter road conditions.

Interim Secretary and MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng expressed enthusiasm for the contest, stating, “Winter is coming, and the Name-A-Snowplow contest is a fun way to engage with students and the communities we serve.”

For more details or to participate in the contest, interested parties can visit the MassDOT website.