Gulf Power’s Jeff Cole carried the skills he learned in the U.S. Army to his job in Environmental Affairs at Gulf Power.

Hired in January, Cole is one of more than 200 Gulf Power employees who are veterans. He spent 12 years in the U.S. Army as a sergeant handling signal communications including a 13-month tour in Iraq.

“My military background really helped with leadership tools,” Cole said. “I’m grateful Gulf Power saw enough in my abilities to hire me.”

On Veterans Day, Gulf Power salutes its employees who are veterans, as well as all American veterans. 

Earlier this year, Gulf Power’s parent company, Southern Company was recognized as the top-ranked energy company and No. 3 overall in the 2014 DiversityInc Top 10 Companies for Veterans. In addition, the company is the top-ranked energy company and No. 13 overall in the Military Times EDGE Best for Vets: Employers 2014 survey and has been named to the Most Valuable Employers for Military® winners by CivilianJobs.com for the fifth consecutive year.

“Veterans from all branches of the military bring skill sets that match up well with Gulf Power,” said Stan Connally, Gulf Power President and CEO. “We are committed to bringing in veterans into our workforce.” 

Cole is now a captain in the Army Reserves and plans to stay involved for at least another 10 years.

“The Army teaches discipline and loyalty that I’ve incorporated into my day-to-day work at Gulf Power,” he said.

Gulf Power Company is an investor-owned electric utility with all of its common stock owned by Atlanta-based Southern Company. Gulf Power serves more than 436,000 customers in eight counties throughout Northwest Florida. The company’s mission is to safely provide exceptional customer value by delivering reliable, affordable and environmentally responsible electricity while strengthening our communities. Visit online at MyGulfPower.com or on the company’s Facebook page, “Gulf Power Company.”

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