AT ONE Gas, Inclusion & Diversity are key components of our core values and one that has driven the creation of Employee Resource Groups. Throughout 2022, these voluntary, employee-led groups based on shared characteristics, interests or life experiences, will be highlighted in a series called “Talent Talks”. With Talent Talks, members of our Employee Resource Groups will talk about what they’re reading, watching, and listening to while also covering what they think of ONE Gas as an employer that supports them on a professional and personal level.

Why did you want to work for ONE Gas, and how long have you worked with the company?

Michael Tsotaddle(15 years with the company): ONE Gas, at that time, was ONEOK, a meter shop in Shawnee, Oklahoma had an opening for Forklift Operator. I interviewed with the Supervisor, Mr. Ernest Petty. After the interview, Mr. Petty asked me, “Are you ready to work?” My reply was, “Yes!” Well to my surprise, this work involved rebuilding, leak testing, low lighting, final testing, and painting residential meters. As time went on, I went through training in operating a forklift. I could go on and on about this company and how appreciative I am to be a part of the ONE Gas family.

Michael Deer(1.5 years with the company): I wanted to work for ONE Gas because of the stability and foundation it has established in Oklahoma.

What made you want to get involved with Native ONE?

Michael Tsotaddle: I joined Native ONE at first to see what it was all about, get involved and to volunteer at events. I value the teachings of hands on and participating as a volunteer. My wife and I started by being invited to The Red Feather Gala, then The Dance of the Two Moons fundraiser and also enjoyed walking in the Tulsa parade with Native ONE. My experience so far has been awesome, full of color, beautiful human beings, memories that will last a lifetime for me and my wife Lea to always treasure. I have had a very enjoyable time with Native ONE and never dreamed to be in a co-chair position. Thank you so much Native ONE for all the time and effort you give back to ONE Gas. Looking forward to seeing what the coming years will bring. Aho/ Megwich/ Gracias.

Michael Deer: I am very active culturally within my own Tribe and Community and I felt I could bring some of my Cultural Values and insights to Native One. I also wanted to get to know more of my fellow coworkers so I thought Native One would be a great way to network within ONE Gas.

What books/podcasts/movies/documentaries/articles would you recommend to someone that aligns with your Employee Resource Group’s mission?

Michael Deer: A Guide to the Indian Tribes of Oklahoma, by Muriel Wright is a good book for anyone within the company to have. It gives a brief history on all the Tribes in Oklahoma and where they are located within the state. This would help our employees who deal with customers on a daily basis by giving them knowledge about the various Indian Tribes and culture of the areas we serve.

What would you tell a job seeker about our company and what advice would you give them?

Michael Tsotaddle: Our company is a very great place to be employed, you can advance, we have many benefits for you. My advice is to join an Employee Resource Group (ERG) and volunteer, keep in mind our highest goal is safety. You should have a good work ethic, watch, listen, ask questions and learn from veteran employees. Thank you and I really do hope to see you at an event and have you say to me “I read your article and decided to act on it.”

Michael Deer: I would tell a job seeker to definitely apply with ONE Gas, they have a job for almost everyone in the industry. ONE Gas will use your skills and take care of you as an employee. ONE Gas is a great place to work and grow as an individual.