National Volunteer Week Southwest Gas Employee Spotlight: Scott Nichols, Customer Service Technician, Victorville, California

During National Volunteer Week – and all year long – we celebrate employees like Scott Nichols who go to great lengths to serve others. Their stories remind us that no act of kindness is ever wasted. 

In Scott Nichols’ house, volunteering isn’t just an occasional activity, it’s a family tradition. A 20-year Southwest Gas veteran, Nichols and his wife have made community service a cornerstone of family life, raising their six children – now ages 18 to 27 – with a shared commitment to giving back.  

“Volunteering brings our family joy and purpose, and it’s become a lasting tradition we’re proud to share,” said Nichols. “Through these activities, we’ve created special moments to bond, even when our schedules are hectic.” 

From an early age, his children took part in Southwest Gas’ BLUE - Building Lives Up Everywhere volunteer program. Even birthday celebrations became opportunities for service, with his youngest daughter once spending her special day serving the community through a BLUE event.  

Now that some of his children have moved away, their dedication remains. "They often ask about upcoming opportunities to return home and give back,” Nichols shared.  

One standout memory for Nichols is the rehabilitation project in Big Bear. His then four-year-old daughter worked side-by-side with her older siblings.  

“They were up at the crack of dawn with no complaints, ready to work together as a team,” he said. “I loved hearing their giggles, watching them follow instructions, and seeing the smiles on their faces throughout the day.” 

Nichols credits Southwest Gas for creating a platform where employees and their children can engage in safe, well-organized, and memorable volunteer efforts.  

“Southwest Gas has provided our family with many opportunities to enrich our children's lives and instill values that they’ll carry with them into adulthood and hopefully pass on to their own families someday,” said Nichols. “I look forward to sharing those experiences with my grandchildren.” 

For Nichols, the benefits of volunteering extend far beyond their direct impact.  

“Giving back to our community makes us feel fulfilled, grounded, and grateful – it reminds us as a family what really matters and brings joy in ways that few other things can,” he said. It’s incredibly rewarding for us to know that even small efforts can brighten someone’s day or make a difference.” 

Want to learn more about how Southwest Gas is making an impact in our communities? Visit swgas.com/en/community.