Overhead Crew Leader Gavin Smith has retired with almost 29 years of service with GUC. Gavin came to GUC from an electric crew with the Town of Winterville and started out in our Meter Section. He then moved to a streetlight crew before joining a construction crew and ultimately becoming a Crew Leader. 

As Overhead (OH) Crew Leader, Gavin supervised one of our OH Construction Crews of four Lineworkers who build electric lines “from scratch,” and work on all major projects involving overhead lines. For example, if a new development project is under construction, this crew helps set or replace poles, string primary and secondary lines, etc. The crew also pitches in to assist the Underground section when necessary, and they rotate on the “holiday” trouble crews so that Troubleshooters can get a break.   

 Gavin has also been on his fair share of mutual aid trips following hurricanes and winter storms – at least ten that he can recall. GUC occasionally provides mutual aid to other public utilities following catastrophic storms, and we’ve been on the receiving end of mutual aid as well. In addition, Gavin recently assisted with the state rodeo as one of our team coaches, bringing home several big wins.   

 “I’ve enjoyed the work and the people over the years,” he said. “There was always something different to keep the work interesting.”  

 In retirement, Gavin looks forward to spending more time with his family, including his father who lives close by. He and his wife, Jamie, have two sons, Josh (18) and Grey (16). 

 We wish you the best of luck in retirement, Gavin, and thank you for your years of service!