INDIANAPOLIS — The Association of Indiana Counties announced that Montgomery County Highway Superintendent Jake Lough received the 2026 Outstanding Highway Superintendent Award. The award recognized Jake’s contributions to county government throughout his years of public service.
Lough has dedicated his career to improving county infrastructure, rising through the Montgomery County Highway Department from truck driver in 2008 to county highway director in 2021. A graduate of Vincennes University with a degree in conservation law enforcement, he helped secure a $16 million grant for the Nucor Road Overpass Project, a transformative transportation investment expected to improve connectivity and safety in the county.
Committed to professional growth and public service, Lough earned both Road Builder and Master Road Builder certifications and currently serves as president of the Indiana Association of County Highway Engineers and Supervisors. He also serves on the AIC Legislative Committee, AIC Board of Directors, and the National Association of Counties transportation steering committee. Through innovative use of grant funding and a data-driven approach to road maintenance and project planning, Lough continues to strengthen Montgomery County’s transportation network while promoting transparency and accountability.
The award was presented during AIC’s 68th Annual Conference in Allen County. The AIC’s Annual Conference is the largest gathering of county officials in the state. Representatives from public agencies, private entities, and local elected officials addressed issues such as county finances, artificial intelligence, public safety, human resources, infrastructure, housing, economic development, retirement planning, cybersecurity, and long-term planning for sustainable growth.
