Name: Gary Marc Chapa
Birthplace: Victoria, Texas
Title: Substation Performance Crew Leader
Location: South Houston Service Center
Years with company: 11
What educational/employment path led you to CenterPoint Energy and the position you hold today?
I graduated from Texas State Technical College (TSTC) in Waco.
What are some of the things that you do in a day’s work?
I oversee the day to day operations and maintance of all the CNP owned substations and all customer owned substations in the South Houston area, around 55 total.
What do you find most rewarding about your job?
I like knowing that I am apart of keeping the lights on for the greater Houston area.
What is the most memorable experience you have had while working at CenterPoint Energy?
Hurricane Ike was an experience like no other. I was sent to Galveston a few days after Ike made land fall to help with the restoration of Galveston 26th Street Substation. After it was all said and done, the crews replaced all 15 Distribution breakers, six transmission breakers, more than 50 relays in the control house and made all repairs necessary to restore the substation in a timely manner.
How has CenterPoint Energy helped you move forward in your career?
It has given me the opportunity to learn about our electrical system and what it takes to keep the lights on for all of our customers on a day to day basis.
What advice would you offer a potential employee of CenterPoint Energy?
Come in with a good attitude and work ethic, and learn everything you can from the guys at your shop.