Crescencio Gonzalez, Public Awareness Specialist at CenterPoint Energy, has been named the recipient of the 2025 Q4 Damage Prevention Hero award. This recognition highlights his commitment to public safety and a collaborative approach that has made a significant impact in and around the Houston, Texas area.
Gonzalez’s work is critical to promoting safe digging practices, which help protect underground utility lines and keep the public safe. His dedication is evident in several key areas:
Bilingual Education: He is particularly passionate about educating all stakeholders, especially those who require information and training in Spanish.
PSA Development: He was instrumental in creating a no-cost, industry-wide Public Service Announcement (PSA) by collaborating with the JCB Monster Jam driver of DIGatron.
Community Involvement: He actively promotes Texas811 at various community and weekend events.
Industry Leadership: He is an active member of the CGA Education Committee, the DPC of Texas, and the Hispanic Contractors Safety Council.
Setting the Standard for Safety:
His colleagues and industry partners praised Gonzalez for his dedication and innovation.
“CenterPoint Energy is setting the standard in damage prevention, and that’s entirely because of the incredible team behind it,” said Kyle Coggins, Director of Damage Prevention at CenterPoint Energy. “Cres continues to open doors for us to grow our impact, connect with more people, and spread the message about 811 and safe digging practices throughout Houston.”
His commitment to inclusivity, particularly with Spanish-speaking audiences, has been a major asset to national efforts. “Crescencio’s involvement in the Bilingual Task Team has brought invaluable insight, especially through his experience with the damage prevention community in Texas” shared Rosemary Langowski, Washington Gas and Cochair of the CGA Education Committee. “Most recently, he introduced the group to a talented artist who created a Spanish-language jingle to promote 811 messaging, an exciting and creative contribution! It’s been a pleasure working with Crescencio. He consistently brings enthusiasm, fresh ideas, and a collaborative spirit to every meeting. His dedication is truly contagious, and I’m looking forward to partnering with him on future initiatives”.
Sam Littrell, Damage Prevention Manager, Texas811 shared, “Crescencio Gonzalez has been indispensable to our local damage prevention efforts. His dedication, teamwork, and connection to the community continue to make an impact across our state and the industry.”
Gonzalez’s receipt of the 2025 Q4 Damage Prevention Hero award underscores the essential nature of his role in safeguarding communities and setting a higher standard for public awareness in the utility industry.