Living it: Help for planet and pocketbook
When he began working at Duke Energy two years ago, T.J. Simonik was intrigued by the company’s support of mass transit. He figured it was worth a try.
He’s been hooked ever since.
Like hundreds of other employees, Simonik’s commuting costs are picked up by the company. In metro areas with mass transit, Duke Energy gives free monthly passes to enrolled employees using public transportation — buses, light rail or van pools. It’s one way the company helps employees lower their own environmental footprint.
“The company makes it so easy,” said Simonik. “I’ve never been a bus rider. But since Duke Energy was willing to pay the cost, I decided to give it a try.”
Now, the Charlotte, N.C.-based senior accounting analyst catches up on work or reads his Kindle during his daily commute. That beats fighting traffic, it saves him money and it’s easier on the environment, too. Simonik says the benefit draws attention from friends and fellow bus riders.
“People I know at other companies are amazed by Duke’s program,” he said. “It’s a great benefit, but also a great way to help the environment.”