Talk & Reception: Colorado Springs Utilities – A Century of Service

The Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum is thrilled to partner with Colorado Springs Utilities to present this exciting talk and reception honoring the 100-year anniversary of Colorado Springs Utilities.

ABOUT THE PROGRAM  

Join us for an enlightening lecture commemorating the 100-year anniversary of Colorado Springs Utilities. This event will delve into the rich history and evolution of this vital municipal entity, highlighting its unwavering commitment to serving the community. 

Over the past century, Colorado Springs Utilities has been more than just a provider of essential services; it has been a cornerstone of the community, ensuring reliable access to water, electricity, natural gas, and wastewater management. The lecture will explore key milestones, innovative projects, and the dedicated efforts of countless employees who have worked tirelessly to enhance the quality of life for residents. 

Attendees will gain insights into how Colorado Springs Utilities has adapted to changing times and technologies while maintaining its core mission of community service. The lecture will also emphasize the importance of sustainable practices and future initiatives aimed at continuing this legacy of excellence. 

Celebrate with us as we recognize the profound impact Colorado Springs Utilities has had on the community it proudly serves. 

ABOUT THE PRESENTER  

 Growing up in Colorado Springs, Jerry graduated from Palmer High School in 1972. During college at the University of Colorado, he worked four summers at Colorado Springs Utilities, as a laborer in the Gas Department. Upon graduation with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, Jerry served as the Director of Public Works and City Engineer in two Colorado communities, Sterling and Woodland Park. He then worked twelve years in Los Alamos New Mexico, his last position as Director of the five-service utility at the Los Alamos National Laboratory. In 2002, he came home to become the Chief Operating Officer for Colorado Springs Utilities. For the last 13 years of his 41-year professional career, Jerry led a workforce of 2000 employees as CEO of Colorado Springs Utilities.  

Jerry successfully oversaw the largest 10-year capital program in CSU’s history including the public process, permitting, design and construction of the Southern Delivery System. SDS ensures our community’s water supply for the next 40 years and was completed on schedule and $160 million under budget. During Jerry’s tenure, Colorado Springs Utilities received many awards for leadership excellence, strategic planning, community involvement and high employee satisfaction. CSU was regularly recognized as a leader in the utilities industry in the areas of low rates, high reliability and excellence in relationships. 

Jerry is perhaps best remembered as a person who cares deeply for those he leads. He has a passion for integrity, safe work performance and for serving customers. Under his leadership, Jerry built a strong partnership with the Utilities Board, CSU employees, the Colorado Springs community and other stakeholders. With a passion for history, one of Jerry’s last accomplishments as CEO was to author a book on the history of Colorado Springs Utilities. The net proceeds from its sale, are given to project COPE, helping citizens with their utility bills. 

After retiring in 2018, Jerry remained active in his church, has taught around the world, and has coached many individuals in integrity-based leadership, relationships and discovering life purpose.