We kick off each year sharing energy savings tips with our customers, so it’s only fitting to begin the 2024 Featured Employees series with Energy Services Specialist Jonathan Sergeant. Jonathan has been assisting our customers with their home and business energy needs since joining GUC in January 2009. He is part of a team of two in the Energy Services section of the Customer Relations Department. In his role, Jonathan assists customers who have high energy usage by providing insights into why it is occurring. He does this by performing either an onsite audit or through discussions over the phone, figuring out ways to lower energy usage. Additionally, our GUC Energy Specialists use building science to teach customers how a building’s structure contributes to energy usage. Through our E-300 program, Jonathan is able to discuss energy conservation and how to build energy-efficient buildings, such as residential homes, schools, churches, and other structures. Jonathan also served for three years on the Lighthouse Steering Team when it began in 2013. 

FUN FACT! Jonathan studied construction in Germany during his junior year in college! 

What are some of your favorite things about this job? I love assisting families that need direction and help managing their high energy usage. It’s rewarding to help them break barriers by providing the insights needed in their day-to-day lives. It’s also nice to hear from customers that the recommendations suggested made a difference. 

What did you want to be when you were younger?  I wanted to be a home builder. 

What motivates you to work hard? I have a drive for helping others, so it doesn’t feel like work. 

What was your very first job? Lawn mowing service on a Snapper Mower at 13 years old. 

What advice do you offer to those who are new to the utility industry? Be willing to adapt to changes in the industry. 

What is your favorite family or holiday tradition? I enjoy going to our family lake house on Hyco Lake in the Summer.  

What would you like us to know about your family? My wife, Wendy, and 11-year-old son, Coleman, are really important to me. We love spending time together doing different actives outside. 

Have you ever had a nickname? What is it? Booger.  

Who is your favorite band or singer? Diana Krall. 

Who is your hero? My Dad, who was a big influence in my life growing up. 

Given a chance, who would you want to meet? Carpenter and author Larry Haun. 

What would you do if you won the lottery? Take care of all of my family and continue to work. 

Do you collect anything or have any hobbies? Yes, I like hiking, gardening, and all water activities. 

Which apps do you use the most? The Weather, Fitness, and Pandora apps. 

Coke or Pepsi?  GUC Water! 

What is at the top of your bucket list? Watching my son grow up to become a respectful individual. 

What’s your favorite season of the year? Spring. 

Do have you have a favorite sports team? Clemson Tigers. 

Beach or mountains?  Lake. 

What’s your biggest pet peeve? When people don’t give eye contact during conversation. 

What’s your favorite quote? I keep this quote in my office - something I drafted in one of our GUC trainings, “Take the good with the bad. Share a smile. Live each day to the fullest. Provide a spark for someone else.” 

What is one thing that instantly makes your day better? Seeing my family or sharing a smile with someone. 

What’s your favorite restaurant in Greenville? Nino's Cucina Italiana.