October 21, 2022

Each October, Careers in Energy Week helps to increase awareness about rewarding careers in the energy industry. As we celebrate Careers in Energy Week from Oct. 17-21, we’re proud to recognize the many employees who work in the field and behind-the-scenes to deliver the power our customers depend on each day

Among those with energy industry careers are past and present service members of the U.S. Armed Forces. FirstEnergy proudly employs more than 1,000 veterans and active-duty service members. These highly skilled men and women value safety and teamwork, and the experience and skills gained through military service uniquely position employees to thrive across all parts of FirstEnergy’s business.

Meet a few of the men and women who have used their experiences in the U.S. Armed Forces to build rewarding careers at FirstEnergy:

Timothy Washington, Manager of Operations Skills Training, Workforce Development

What is your experience in the U.S. Armed Forces?

I had the pleasure of serving in both the U.S. Army and Air Force. During my 16 years of duty, I served under presidents Ronald Reagan through Barack Obama. One of my primary roles while in active duty was networking mobile generators to provide electric service for essential facilities on military bases during deployment operations.

How did you use your military experience to build a career in energy?

After serving in the U.S. Army, I was able to join a local line department as an apprentice line worker. From there, I was able to join FirstEnergy, where I advanced through several roles, including lead lineman, transmission line supervisor, distribution line supervisor and operations manager, before my current role in workforce development. Now I lead a team of employees responsible for developing and delivering training for FirstEnergy employees involved in distribution and transmission operations as well as many emergency preparedness roles. The leadership lessons and experiences I gained during my military career prepared me for success at all stages of my FirstEnergy journey.

What advice would you give to any past and present service members interested in joining FirstEnergy?

FirstEnergy is a military-friendly business that is intentional in its approach to providing great opportunities for veterans and their families. Through FirstEnergy, you will be able to use your experience serving our country to take charge of your own career.

MaryBeth Payne, Administrative Assistant, Customer Contact Center

What is your experience in the U.S. Armed Forces?

I was with the West Virginia Army National Guard for 14 years – eight of which I served as a full-time, active-duty soldier. During my time of service, I provided HR services that included assisting soldiers in the progression of their Army careers, such as managing their personal and logistical information, payroll and more. I traveled across the United States and was deployed to foreign countries like Guatemala, Poland and Peru throughout my military career.

How did you use your military experience to build a career in energy?

I decided I wanted to spend more time with my kids, so I left the National Guard for a position assisting FirstEnergy customers in the contact center. Thanks to the HR skills and experience I developed during my time in the Army National Guard, I was able to excel in helping customers manage their electric service, get them help and act as a helping hand for coworkers. In my current position as an administrative assistant, I handle HR services for contact center employees, mirroring my work in the Army.

What advice would you give to any past and present service members interested in joining FirstEnergy?

FirstEnergy offers past and present service members the ability to take on rewarding work with plenty of potential for growth and amazing benefits.

Douglas Estok, Supervisor, Transmission Controls

What is your experience in the U.S. Armed Forces?

After completing some college, I realized it wasn’t for me and joined the U.S. Air Force. During my four years of service, I primarily worked as an electrical systems specialist, responsible for constructing and maintaining power lines and substations at Nellis Air Force Base in Las Vegas.

How did you use your military experience to build a career in energy?

My dad was a Penelec line worker, so I knew the electric utility industry offered rewarding career opportunities. When I got out of the Air Force, I started at FirstEnergy working as a distribution operator. In my 17 years in distribution operations, my military experience helped me ensure the safety of line and substation workers during routine maintenance and outages as well as in the high-stress environment of storm restoration. Now, I’m responsible for managing teams that handle the programming settings for switches and smart devices throughout the electric system.

What advice would you give to any past and present service members interested in joining FirstEnergy?

FirstEnergy is a military-friendly company with a very similar leadership structure focusing on teamwork and employee development.  Our company offers great benefits and endless opportunities.