Carl Smith has been with GUC for almost 15 years, but, as he would say, “who’s counting?” He began his career at GUC after graduating from NC State University and said he did not anticipate a career in utilities. His youthful ambition was to become an engineer in the automotive performance sector. He even competed in autocross competitions, where drivers race against the clock with obstacles in their paths. However, while in college, he worked his way up to becoming a part-time UPS supervisor, and it was in that position his interest in problem solving and logistical maneuvering was put into practice. After graduation, he came to work as a Gas Engineer at GUC, attracted by the slower pace outside of Raleigh and an opportunity to continue overcoming challenges with innovative solutions.
In his career at GUC, Carl proved himself to be an excellent problem solver, a hard worker, and a person with integrity. All these qualities earned him a promotion to Gas Distribution Engineer at the young age of 24. Today, Carl oversees all above ground gas projects, industrial customer meters, the LNG plant, the CNG station, utility locating services, and federal code compliance.
FUN FACT: I’ve got a twin sister who just had her first child.
What are some favorite things about your job?
We have a great team. I enjoy being able to accomplish what is required with this team, and that we are able to think outside of the box to create solutions.
What motivates you to work hard?
It was instilled in me at a young age to work hard. I want to do the right thing. I want to help my department and be there to support the people around me. I work hard to make sure other people are successful around me.
What is your proudest career accomplishment?
One of my proudest accomplishments is seeing others around me grow and move up in their careers. I am proud to be a part of that.
Any GUC projects you’re working on that you’d like to share?
The LNG Plant expansion is a big project that will add two cryogenic tanks to the plant. Once that is completed, it will provide more storage for reliable and cost-stable gas services.
What advice do you offer to those who are new to the utility industry?
Surround yourself with others who are knowledgeable and absorb as much information as you can.
What would you like us to know about your family?
I have a 10-year-old daughter named Leah. I married my wife 2 ½ years ago and we have two dogs, Hank and Wally.
What is your favorite band or singer?
Stevie Ray Vaughan. However, I am a fan of country, blues, classic rock, and Motown. I like a lot of different types of music.
What have been your favorite travel destinations?
Anything tropical.
What would you do if you won the lottery?
I would keep that win to myself. No one would know.
Do you collect anything or have any hobbies?
I collect instruments and vinyl records. I like spending time with my family, my daughter, and on my boat on the river fishing or just floating.
Any advice on turning a bad day into a good day?
I’d say that you should focus on the positives and what is going well. If you don’t focus on what’s going well, you’ll get dragged down by all the things going wrong, and that is cyclical.
What is at the top of your bucket list?
I’d say it would be to have fulfilling life with meaning. To inspire my daughter and other people I care for to be good people who make an impact and positive contributions to the world. I couldn’t want anything more than that.
What’s your biggest pet peeve?
People not taking ownership and blaming others for the consequences of their decisions and mistakes. Also, people not returning their shopping carts to the right place, which is also not taking ownership and being accountable.
What’s your favorite quote?
Comparison is the thief of joy. - Theodore Roosevelt
What are you looking forward to?
Meeting new challenges that will present themselves after the reorganization of the Gas Department.
If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?
Spend time with those you care about and focus on relationships and not on other things.
