When Steven Belknap joined the Marine Corps in 2017, he was hoping to find a similar camaraderie to what he experienced growing up on various sports teams. It turned out the Marines would provide that, and so much more.  

While Belknap appreciates the many lessons he’s learned over the last seven years in the Marines, the leadership lessons have made the most impact. “My biggest learning has come from being an infantry platoon commander the last three years as a Sergeant; I’ve learned leadership is not about being in charge or achieving rank, it’s about taking care of those in your charge,” he said. “You have to truly care about development in and out of uniform, and you need to build a culture people want to be part of,” he said.  

And the inclusive culture is exactly what drew Belknap to Consumers Energy, “I worked in trades growing up and when I heard about how well Consumers Energy treats its veterans, I knew it was a company I wanted to be part of,” he said.  

It isn’t just Belknap who has recognized our commitment in this space. We have been recognized as a Michigan Veteran’s Affairs Agency Gold Level employer and named Best Employer for Military Veterans by the Best of Vets. 

Joining the Gas Construction Ranks 

Belknap started with the company almost four years ago as a gas lines construction operator. “We would install new gas mains, services, meters, and re-light customer pilot lights on their appliances if they wanted,” he said.   

Earlier this summer Belknap was offered an opportunity that he couldn’t turn down and he now puts his leadership lessons into action every day as a Gas Construction supervisor.  

“I love having a new role where I can lead and communicate with so many people around the state from various work groups. I’m always trying to improve and help in any way I can,” he said. 

As a gas construction supervisor with technology and field mobility, Belknap is responsible for all the gas construction field devices our employees use. “If a fellow employee in the field has an issue with their device or orders, I travel to wherever they are and try to fix it or talk them through it.” Although it can be a lot of travel, he said it’s worth it to know the field employees have one of the many tools they need to be successful.  

Belknap has also put his leadership learnings to use in other company initiatives, including safety. “After getting a better understanding of the work, I got involved with safety teams at various levels,” he said. “I have met some amazing people helping to implement changes that positively impacted those closest to the work.” 

He is also involved in the Veterans Advisory Panel (VAP), which is a Business Employee Resource Group that provides support for former and active military personnel and their families. He currently is the annual event coordinator for VAP and will be receiving the VAP Annual Event Patriot Award for his dedication and commitment to this year’s event. 

Belknap’s advice for other veterans looking for a job is to look for a company that values culture. He is proud of the work he does and the opportunity to serve our customers. “Thank you for allowing me and other veterans in our company to serve you,” he said. Customers can count on Belknap to get them the information they need, “If I don’t know the answer, I promise I will find it.” 

Today and every day we appreciate and recognize our veteran employees and customers.