Conway, AR – Underground Service Technician 2 Gordon “Cheese” Valentine retired this week after more than 27 years of dedicated service to the community.
Gordon began his career with Conway Corp in April 1999 as a groundman and was later promoted to groundman / helper 2 in July 2007. He was promoted to underground service technician in October 2014. He was promoted to his current role in September 2022.
Throughout his career, he worked on the electric department’s underground service crew, responding to trouble calls, performing temporary and permanent service repairs and supporting system reliability for Conway residents.
Reflecting on his career, Gordon said serving his hometown was one of his greatest accomplishments.
“I grew up in this town and just knowing that I was a small part of a big wheel that helped this town and watched it grow means a lot,” he said. “One of the most rewarding things I’ve done was helping light up the Navajo Nation. That was some of the most humbling work I’ve ever been part of.”
He also played a key role in storm restoration efforts both locally and across the region through mutual aid, including working extended hours during major ice storms in 2000 and 2011 to help restore power to the community.
He said the camaraderie among coworkers is what he will miss most.
“The guys — that’s what I’ll miss,” Gordon said. “We spend a lot of time together, and when it’s time to work, everybody steps up and gets the job done.”
Gordon credits Conway Corp’s commitment to employees and their families as a major reason for his long tenure.
“You have job security, fair wages and great benefits. But more importantly, the company cares about your family,” he said.
As he looks ahead to retirement, he is most excited about spending more time with his wife, Pamela, and their grandchildren, while enjoying a slower pace of life.
He also offered advice to future employees entering the field.
“Be patient and be proud of what you accomplish,” he said. “Conway Corp will teach you what you need to know — from equipment to safety — and it’s something you can build a career on.”
Congratulations, Cheese!
