Spire Energy employees Nikki Seeba, Corrie Nunnally and Sam Wenzelburger made history at the 2019 National Gas Rodeo—as the highest-ranking female team on record.
“There are some who believe that we [women] don’t belong in construction, that we can’t carry our own weight. But anything guys can do, we can do—we may just do it differently,” Seeba told American Gas.
Known as the Gashouse Gals, the trio challenged 34 male teams in field operations they do every day—a meter set, hand dig, service installation, pipe cut—along with a relay. They finished fifth overall.
“We hope that one day the women have their own division, but until then, our goal is to win it all,” Wenzelburger said.
Missouri Rep. Doug Beck, who worked as a pipefitter for UA Local 562 for 30 years, found out about the team’s accomplishment on Facebook and wanted to recognize the Gashouse Gals for their work. He did that by presenting them with a resolution honoring their exemplary work in the labor industry at the Missouri State Capitol in Jefferson City.
“Working in this industry requires a level of mental toughness that not everyone has,” Nunnally said. “It takes special people
to do this kind of work, and I feel proud and fortunate to be one of them.”
“I love being able to provide a service that fuels businesses and warms homes,” Seeba said. “I truly enjoy what I do every day, and I know everyone can’t say that.” —Carolyn Kimmel