After more than 30 years of dedication to GUC, IT Infrastructure Manager Tony Godwin has retired, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and leadership in the Information Technology (IT) Department. Throughout his career, Tony played a crucial role in maintaining and improving GUC’s IT infrastructure, communication systems, and cybersecurity. He oversaw technical support operations, including the IT Help Desk, servers, networking, and mobile and telephone systems, ensuring that employees had the tools they needed to work efficiently and securely.
Tony joined GUC in 1994 as a Support Assistant in the Management Information Systems (MIS) Department, which became the IT Department in 2002. In 1997, he was promoted to Technical Support Manager, where he led the development of GUC’s first modern data network—connecting employees across all locations and securing GUC’s first connection to the internet in 1998.
His leadership was particularly vital during times of crisis. When Hurricane Floyd flooded the operations center in 1999, Tony and his team worked tirelessly to salvage equipment, recover data, and restore connectivity, ensuring employees could continue their work under challenging conditions.
Tony also served twice as Interim IT Director, in 2001 and again in 2019-2020, providing stability and guidance during leadership transitions.
Over the years, Tony led numerous transformative projects, including: implementing GUC’s first company-wide email system, GroupWise, in 1997 then later migrating to Microsoft Exchange and Office 365; overseeing the installation of the Mitel telephone system still in use today; moving GUC’s data center to the Main Office, ensuring a modern, well-structured IT environment; and developing GUC’s cybersecurity awareness and training program.
Reflecting on his career, Tony shared, "The first half of my career was spent setting up our enterprise-wide network and communication systems, while the second half has been focused on protecting it from cyber threats. Technology has evolved to the point where email is now expected just like lights when you flip a switch—but I remember when an email system with calendar scheduling was a game changer for office efficiency."
Beyond his IT leadership, Tony contributed to GUC in many other ways. He served on the Wellness Committee, the Operations Center Development Leadership Team, and the New Employee Orientation Ad Hoc Committee, helping HR revamp its orientation process.
He's also "famous" for his homemade ice cream and started the Main Office Ice Cream Social in 1996. Since then, there have been 19 socials with 10 or more gallons of homemade ice cream prepared on site for employees to enjoy on a hot summer's day.
Tony’s journey into IT wasn’t a direct path. He graduated from Wingate College with a degree in Human Services and earned a Master’s in Clinical Psychology from Appalachian State University (ASU). It was at ASU that he got his first computer and developed a passion for technology.
While working as a staff psychologist in Lenoir County, he realized he was spending more time teaching office staff how to use computers than seeing clients. After much soul searching, he switched careers, joining S&R Computers in Greenville where he gained the certifications and experience that ultimately brought him to GUC.
"Through the years, I’ve enjoyed seeing technology improve the way we work," Tony said. "I’m proud to have contributed to platforms that help employees communicate and work more efficiently."
In retirement, Tony is looking forward to traveling with his wife, Kay, and their sons, Adam and Michael, with a trip to the Grand Canyon and Las Vegas already on the books. He also plans to pursue hobbies, volunteer more with his church, take on home improvement projects, and serve on the board of CareNet Counseling Center East.
Tony, thank you for your dedication and leadership. We wish you all the best in retirement!
