85 - Chris Stermer, Senior Utility Coordination Manager

WGI Unleashed

It's that time again - Welcome back to yet another episode of the WGI Unleashed Podcast!

Join us for episode 85 as we sit down with Chris Stermer, WGI's Senior Utility Coordinator Manager in Tampa, Florida - From his early days in Pompano Beach, FL, to his long-standing dedication to service, Chris’s journey has been nothing short of inspiring.

Exploring a Life of Service and Leadership

Although he was born in Norfolk, VA, Chris' early childhood was spent in Pompano Beach, FL, growing up in a time before the bustling I-95 corridor in South Florida was even constructed. His passion for service was ignited early in life, leading him to join the Navy at just 17 years old in the year 1979.

Chris spent an impressive 27 years in active service, most of which took place on the flight deck of aircraft carriers as a jet engine mechanic. His Navy career took him around the globe, with Cairo, Egypt standing out as his favorite destination. During his time in service, Chris also seized the opportunity to further his education through a scholarship program - standing as a testament to his lifelong commitment to learning.

A Transition to Civilian Life

After retiring from the Navy, Chris quickly transitioned to civilian life as a defense contractor, where he specialized in “In-Flight Refueling," and ultimately became a subject matter expert as he earned the trust of his superiors and all those around him. It was in this role that he honed his skills in AutoCAD, a tool that would become invaluable in his subsequent career.

His technical prowess and dedication to his craft led him to a position with a gas company in Port St. Lucie, where he learned to draw utilities, a skill that set the stage for his future role in utility coordination here at WGI.

A History of Recognition and Humility

Throughout his tenured career, Chris’s expertise and dedication have certainly not gone unnoticed.

In 2020, he was honored with the John J. Farkas Award for Outstanding Utility Coordination, a prestigious accolade bestowed upon him by his peers, and standing as a true highlight of his career - And despite his many successes, Chris has made it a point to remain humble, attributing his knowledge to the “school of hard knocks.”

Beyond the Office

Chris and his wife, now empty nesters, share their home with Gizmo, a Yorkie/Chihuahua mix who Chris calls "A Bundle of Energy." - And beyond the office, Chris finds his life deeply rooted in spirituality, service, and motorcycles, otherwise known as the three pillars that guide him.

For over 20 years, he has been actively involved in a prison ministry program, participating in an organization that brings motorcyclists to prisons to hold church services and deliver testimony to inmates. This work is a profound part of who Chris is, and he credits it as one of the most fulfilling aspects of his life.

And when he's not busy sharing his expertise in utility coordination or involved in ministry, you can find Chris playing taps on his bugle, a testament to his time in the service, or cruising around town!

But that's not all - In this episode, Chris also shares some intriguing anecdotes from his life, such as:

• Did he really circumnavigate the globe in 1986?
• Has he really been to all 50 states?
• And did he once joyride in a helicopter dressed as Santa?

So, don't wait a moment longer - Grab those headphones and crank up the volume because it's time to get unleashed. Plus, don't forget to tune in next time as we unravel more captivating tales and insights on the WGI Unleashed Podcast. Until then, stay inspired and keep unleashing your potential!

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