Operations System Coordinator Chris Boudreaux is retiring this month after more than 27 years of service to Conway Corp, leaving behind a legacy of innovation, institutional knowledge and dedication to public service.
Chris joined Conway Corp in March 1999 as a GIS coordinator at a time when many systems were still paper-based. He played a key role in developing and expanding the organization’s Geographic Information System, which became the foundation for multiple major operational advancements across the utility.
“Developing the GIS system was extremely impactful,” he said. “Without it, all the other things we’ve built wouldn’t really help us. Developing GIS so we could build other systems on top of it is how we truly got a return on that investment.”
In October 2018, Chris transitioned into his current role. In that position, he served as a liaison across operational departments—electric, water, sewer and telecommunications, helping coordinate needs and ensure technology supported each team effectively.
“The title was meant to be the person who understands what each group needs and helps connect them,” he said. “Technology was really the key to making that work.”
During his career, Chris was instrumental in the implementation and evolution of outage management systems and automated metering infrastructure, advancements shaped in part by his experience during the December 2000 ice storm.
“When that storm happened, everything was paper-based,” he said. “We were calling customers to ask if their power was on because we had no other way of knowing. That experience set everything in motion. I realized then that this company could benefit enormously from technology, even if we didn’t know how long it would take.”
“Chris has been a cornerstone of our operations team for many years,” Conway Corp Engineering & Planning Manager Dale Gottsponer said. “His knowledge of our systems and commitment to doing things right the first time have been a tremendous asset to Conway Corp. Chris has always been willing to step in, solve problems and support his coworkers. He’s not only a valued team member but also a great friend to many of us.”
As he prepares for retirement, Chris says what he will miss most is the people he worked alongside.
“All the people,” he said. “Absolutely.”
He looks forward to the freedom retirement brings, including spending more time with family, working on projects and enjoying a slower pace of life.
“Retirement means I can wake up and sit on the porch to watch the sun come up any day of the week,” Chris said. “It’s the freedom of time. Monday can feel like Saturday.”
He also offered advice to current and future Conway Corp employees.
“Learn everything you can and don’t turn down challenges,” he said. “When I came here, I was hired to do GIS, and I ended up doing much more because I was willing to try new things. There are a lot of opportunities here if you’re open to them.”
Congratulations, Chris!
