PWC earned our second Smart Energy Provider Award from the American Public Power Association for demonstrating a commitment to and proficiency in energy efficiency, distributed generation, and environmental initiatives that support the goal of providing safe, reliable, low-cost, and sustainable electric service. Carolyn Justice-Hinson (PWC CCR Officer) and Tim Stankiewicz (Principal Engineer - Planning & Reliability) joined us in "The Bucket" to discuss some of the key disciplines that PWC was evaluated on in order to be just one of four NC Public Power utilities to receive this designation.

PWC truly understands that our people are our greatest assets! As the largest municipal public power system in North Carolina, Fayetteville’s Hometown Utility takes pride in being a good neighbor who is committed to quality services, reliability, conservation, safety and the environment. Bobby Russell, PWC HR Officer, discussed the employee environment, upcoming events (Veteran's Day Employee Breakfast) and why PWC has been named one of the Best Employers in NC in this episode --- get connected!

October celebrates Customer Service Week (Oct. 4-8) and PWC celebrates the importance of Customer Service and the people who serve and support our customers on a daily basis. Bevan Grice, Director of Customer Service, joined us in "The Bucket" to chat about his career journey, customer service changes since COVID, and the various account options we offer our customers. Tune in and get connected!

Darsweil L. Rogers was appointed to the PWC Board in Sept. 2013 and reappointed for a second four-year term, which is reaching it's conclusion (Sept. 2021). Rogers has a wealth of knowledge especially as an entrepreneur, consultant and coach. He has brought over 30 years of experience advising management teams and running businesses in the board room. Rogers joined us in "The Bucket" to share his background, commissioner insight, and perspective as the commissioner of a Public Power utility.

Electric vehicles (EVs) are progressively becoming viable competitors to gasoline-powered automobiles. Virtually every automaker now either offers one or more EVs or has them coming soon. Battery technology is improving steadily, and EVs are becoming more affordable. If you're thinking of purchasing an EV or just want to know more about them, Janelle Rockett (PWC Key Accounts Agent) joined us to answer some frequently asked questions about EVs, talk about the Fayetteville EV Club, and discuss the upcoming Sustainable Sandhills Drive Electric Car held at PWC on Oct. 2nd. 

The Light Up Navajo initiative was a pilot effort to bring together volunteer crews from public power utilities across the country to connect Navajo homes to the grid. The project has extended for Light Up Navajo II and Light Up Navajo III. Even though the 2020 event was cancelled due to the pandemic, PWC helped bring electricity to homes of 300 Navajo families. Jon Rynne, Electrical Systems Chief Operating Officer, joined us to discuss the background of this project, PWC's involvement, and the award recognition from the American Public Power Association and the Navajo Tribal Utility Authority. 

National Water Quality Month (August) reminds us to take a moment to consider how important our water sources are not just to us as humans, but all inhabitants of these ecosystems— whether it’s the fish that live in the waters or the plants and animals that rely on lakes and rivers for water just like we do. Jason Green, PWC W/R Treatment Facilities Manager, joined us to discuss the PWC water treatment process, address some common concerns, and suggest some ways to protect our water source(s).

PWC received an American Public Power Association (APPA) Sue Kelly Community Service Award in June 2021. The award recognizes “good neighbor” activities that demonstrate an organization's commitment to the community. PWC General Manager Elaina Ball accepted the award during the APPA's annual conference and joined us for this episode to detail the purpose of the award and the breakdown the community impact our employees are making with their contributions and dedication. Click "Play" and hear about the neighborly deeds of Your Hometown Utility!

Individuals and communities as a whole can take an active role in protecting their water sources from contamination. PWC operations and maintenance staff at our Water Treatment Facilities are committed to providing safe, high quality water for our customers. Rhonda Locklear, PWC Water Resources Environmental & Compliance Manager, joined us this episode to discuss the process of monitoring and maintaining safe water resources for the City of Fayetteville and Cumberland County. Also get tips on what you can do to protect our water supply. 

Today’s competitive business environment requires companies to go above and beyond in order to recruit and retain top talent. Organizations are thinking outside of the box to offer creative perks for top performers. PWC (Business NC - 2021 Best Employers in NC) is always looking to add value by recruiting and hiring the best talent! Jennifer Bullard (Senior HR Advisor) and Adrian Clarke (HR Advisor) joined us in "The Bucket" to discuss their job roles, the benefits of working for PWC, and developmental programs for students. We also had our summer intern Sydney Harris jump in as a guest host.