Gas Systems Technician Robert Foreman has worn many hats in his almost 20 years at Greenville Utilities. The one he takes most seriously, even at home, is safety. In fact, he's pretty sure his wife would appreciate hearing less about Smith Driving safety tips whenever they ride in a car together. "I practice safety not just at work, but at home, too," he said. "And that includes the driving. My wife finally stopped asking why I back into parking spaces."

Robert says he appreciates that GUC is committed to a safe work environment. "We all look out for each other and help keep each other safe," he continued. "We wear personal protection equipment not just for physical protection but so customers can better ID us when we're working on their property." His advice for others is to not get in a hurry. "Take your time, do it the right way, and you won't get hurt."

Almost 20 years ago, Robert started joined GUC as a Machine Operator in Water Resources before moving to the Gas Department doing construction on new gas mains and service lines. Robert later worked on a crew responsible for the gas valve maintenance program.

Now, Robert's primary responsibility is the routine inspection and maintenance of gas meters. When needed, he sands, primes, and repaints the meters on the spot. If he sees a potential problem he can't repair in the field, he tags the meter and sends in a work order.

Robert also assists the service and construction crews when needed. He maintains his Class A CDL license so that he can continue to help in this capacity, whether it's operating construction equipment or driving it to crews in the field.

Like many of us at GUC, he enjoys the people he works with. "I've also been fortunate to have good crew leaders and supervisors," he said. Because of the various job responsibilities he's had here over the years, Robert says that other departments occasionally ask for his assistance. "I appreciate that my supervisors have allowed that over the years, because one day we might need their help, too. It goes both ways."

From Pinetops, Robert and his wife, Brenda Carol, have five children ranging from 20 to 29 years old, along with four grandchildren. All but one of their kids has settled closed to home, and one daughter lives in Georgia. Brenda Carol is retired and currently serves as the Pastor at New Bethlehem Holiness Church. Together, they enjoy living on their farm where they grow their own produce. He also enjoys fishing and hunting when he has time.

Robert is also an auctioneer in his spare time. There is a lot of work involved in planning an auction, especially for estates, and his wife enjoys helping him out. When he accepts an auction job, he pretty much does everything from start to finish, which includes marketing the auction, tagging all of the items, and conducting the auction. "It's time consuming, but we enjoy it," he said.

Favorites:

Snacks - Jif Peanut Butter & Diet Mt. Dew
TV Shows - Andy Griffith & Redd Foxx
Movies - Westerns