Employee Spotlight Ken
BELLEVUE, Wash. (5/20/2019) The spotlight shines on one of our officers; Ken Johnson. We’re highlighting Ken to celebrate ‘Bike Everywhere’ month because he’s an avid commuter cyclist who’s been doing it since he moved to Central Puget Sound in 2012. He commutes on his electric bike year-round and depending on weather, will ride to work 1-3 times a week.
“This is my fourth time participating in ‘Bike Everywhere Day.’ Commuting by bike takes me out of my car and into the elements. It’s an invigorating and refreshing way to start and end the work day,” said Johnson.
Read more about the most challenging part of Ken’s job and one of his most memorable moments at PSE.
What do you do at PSE and how long have you been here?
I joined PSE in January 2006 and today I serve as Vice President of Regulatory and Government Affairs.
Why did you want to work here?
PSE is one of Washington’s most respected and valued companies. Its mission is to deliver safe, dependable and affordable electricity and natural gas, making our services essential to the health and happiness of our customers and the communities we serve. It is a privilege to work here.
What's the best or favorite part about your job?
I get to lead a team of experienced and incredibly talented people committed to PSE and our customers.
What one thing do you need to know really well to do your job?
Patience :)
What’s most challenging about your job?
The regulatory and legislative processes are extremely complex, and success requires the ability to understand and satisfy the diverse needs and objectives of multiple parties while still delivering on the expectations of our customers and management team.
What are you most proud of working at PSE?
We live our company’s values. We all have a seat at the table, we do what’s right for the customer and we have each other’s backs.
What’s one of your most memorable moments while working here?
Showing up on an early Saturday morning for a Food Lifeline volunteer event and finding a dozen of my fellow PSE employees joining me to support such an important organization.
How does your role or work support our TOGETHER/carbon reduction campaign?
The government affairs and regulatory teams work with elected officials and our regulators to establish clear policies that will allow PSE to deliver on initiatives like TOGETHER and meet our customer’s expectations of a cleaner energy future
Of PSE's values, which resonates most with you and why?
We have each other’s back. People truly feel empowered when they know they have the uncompromised support of their teammates, their leadership and the organization as a whole.
What’s your favorite place to eat?
Home. Few things are more satisfying than a meal you prepared yourself.
What's your favorite vacation spot? Why?
Kauai. I fell in love with the island when first I visited in 1985. I have returned numerous times and my appreciation for its history, the people and their culture, and the beauty of its lush mountains and valleys increases with each experience
What's the best advice you've ever received?
Respect a person for the passion they have for their cause, not the position that comes along with it.
What do you like to do outside of work? Any interesting hobbies or community service activities?
I love the outdoors and am an avid backpacker and cyclist.
If you could have any super power, what would it be?
Time travel!
If you could be on any reality TV show, which would you choose and why?
Amazing Race. I am an adventure junky!
--Ken
