For most of Florida, spring is the growing season. Tampa Electric’s Manatee Viewing Center grows each fall, with TECO team members doing the watering – and planting, mulching, sweeping … and much, much more.
That was true again as multiple teams came to the environmental education facility to enjoy the camaraderie of teambuilding while handling the crucial upgrades the center needs for its annual season, from Nov. 1 to April 15. As a winner of the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence, the center hosts tens of thousands of visitors over 22 weeks – with new things now like a 50-foot wildlife observation tower.
“We went to a series of cleanup days instead of just one mainly because the center needs more help to get ready – it’s bigger than ever,” said Jamie Woodlee, senior environmental technician with Environmental, Health & Safety. “But it’s pretty clear that team members who donate time to help us have just as much fun as the public that gets to enjoy the results.”
Amy Wiesman, supervisor of Administrative Services with Purchasing & Contracts Administration, agreed.
“It was a great experience – everyone loved being outdoors and helping the company in a different way than their normal daily jobs,” Wiesman said. “Their hard work was so visual … you could really see a difference at the end of each day.”
With a new video touting the center and an ever-higher profile that looks to keep getting bigger, especially as the Florida Conservation & Technology Center rises to the south, team members will continue to be in demand – just like the Manatee Viewing Center’s staff.
“We’re so proud to be able to offer the public such a unique environment showcase, especially with free admission,” said Stan Kroh, manager of Land & Water Programs with Environmental, Health & Safety. “And as we’ve seen this year, more and more team members should be proud of what they’ve brought to the center as individuals to help it shine.”
No Comments Found