National Volunteer Week Southwest Gas Employee Spotlight: William Longest, Service Technician, Tucson, Arizona

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

Growing up in a broken home with limited resources, Southwest Gas Service Technician William Longest dreamed of breaking the generational cycle and escaping the struggles his young parents faced. His determination to have a different life led him to his career at Southwest Gas -- and he made a promise to himself to serve and support others who face similar hardships he did as a child. 

“I made a promise that if I ever had the chance to rise above my circumstances, I’d do my best to give back whenever I could,” said Longest. “I wanted something better—not just for myself, but for those who would come after me.  

Guided by mentors who believed in him, William was determined to honor their support. “Volunteering is my way of honoring the journey and the people who helped to get me here,” he said.  

Today, William and his wife are raising a family of eight – four children of their own, along with four children they adopted. Together, they actively participate in Southwest Gas BLUE - Building Lives Up Everywhere employee volunteer events.  

“With both our younger and older children, we've always made it a point to teach them the importance of serving our community,” he said. “Whether it’s picking up trash at the park or handing out water and food to those in need, we lead by example. I truly believe it’s every parent’s responsibility to instill a spirit of service in their children and to pass on the desire to assist those who need help.” 

One of the family’s favorite BLUE events is the Food Boxing Challenge at the Community Food Bank, where they enjoy the fast-paced energy and the friendly competition with local electric utility company, Tucson Electric Power (TEP).  

Another meaningful milestone was nominating Boost a Foster Family — a nonprofit that supported them during their adoption process for three of their children — for Southwest Gas’ FUEL for LIFE employee giving program. Through this initiative, employees can support local nonprofits through payroll deduction. Outside of work, the Longest family continues to uplift their community. William even took home Best Boot and Best Shoe Ronald McDonald Red Shoe Contest — a lighthearted event for a great cause. 

“Having a helping spirit and a heart for service is so important,” said Longest. “You never know when life might hit you unexpectedly, and you find yourself on the receiving end of someone else’s generosity—nothing is ever too small when it comes to giving.” 

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