Celebrating a Century: Duke Power and Pat Hudgins

In 1929, Pat Hudgins left his job with General Electric in New York to work for a company in the Carolinas he'd never heard of -- Southern Public Utilities Company.

"I'd never heard of 'Southern Public Utilities Company,' but I was looking for somewhere to go to get away from the bone-chilling cold in New York," Hudgins said.

"During my first week in Charlotte, I was testing transformers when we had an ice storm that broke about a hundred or so utility poles. They put me in a line truck and had me digging holes for replacement poles. Still, as cold as it was, it was nothing like New York, and I knew I wanted to stay."

Now that company -- which became Duke Power -- and Hudgins both mark their 100th birthdays this year. Duke Power celebrated its century mark April 30th and Hudgins will enjoy his 100th birthday on May 7.

Over the years, Hudgins worked in a number of departments in various cities throughout Duke Power's service area, ending his 42-year career with the company in 1971, when he retired from a district manager position in Rutherfordton.

Even though he's been retired more than 30 years, Hudgins is active in his local retiree chapter, attending quarterly meetings in Hickory, NC, and supporting his chapter members' volunteer work.

Asked about what aspect of working at Duke Power he misses most, Hudgins replies, "The people. The company is full of wonderful people."

And what words of wisdom does Hudgins have for current Duke Power employees?

"Learn as much about the company as you can -- not just about your individual job, but about the whole company and the entire industry," he advises. "This knowledge will serve you well in your current job and any future jobs you might have."