At the Gallatin Department of Electricity, some careers span decades, building not only a legacy of hard work but of connection, growth, and community. One such example is Suzanne, who recently reached a significant milestone — 30 years of service.
While recognition hasn’t always been formalized in the past, her milestone has prompted reflection: on the value of honoring dedication and the impact a long career can have within a close-knit organization. “We should have been celebrating these moments all along,” Jaerica shared. “It shows others that they too can have a lifelong career here if they choose.”
For Suzanne, this journey started in childhood. In a first-grade interview with her local newspaper, she declared her dream: to work for the “light department and meet lots of people.” That vision, inspired in part by her mother’s work at Tri-County Electric, became reality after she graduated from Vol State and heard of an opportunity at GDE through family connections. She needed a job—but unknowingly stepped into her lifelong career.
Over three decades, Suzanne has witnessed sweeping changes: new leadership, multiple software transitions, and a workplace culture that evolved from “do your job and go home” to one that values collaboration, cross-training, and engagement. “Change has been hard,” she admitted candidly. “Especially when you’ve done things a certain way for so long. But being open-minded is key.”
Her memories are rich — from hand-writing applications and managing bank drafts by tearing off card pieces and calculating, to adapting through major system updates. Through it all, Suzanne has had to learn, even when it pushed her out of her comfort zone.
What stands out most, though, are the relationships. “This small company has been my family,” she said with a smile. “I’ve watched coworkers’ kids grow up. I’ve shared life with them.” She’s known as someone who lightens the mood, cuts up to relieve stress, and supports coworkers on a personal level. “Some of the younger ones come to me for mama advice,” she smiled.
As she looks toward the future, Suzanne envisions a slower pace—more time in the yard, caring for her mother, and hopefully, future grandchildren. But her legacy at GDE is already well-established.
She hopes people remember her as someone who was fun, kind-hearted, and always willing to help. “I might seem tough,” she laughed, “but I care deeply. I’d do anything for anyone here.”
And that, in the end, is what makes 30 years at one place so meaningful.