30 Stories for 30 Years: The Calm at Y2K – Calvin Witty

As we continue our 30 Stories for 30 Years series, we’re honoring the stories and quiet moments of dedication that have shaped Gaedeke’s journey.

Today, we’re proud to spotlight a memory from Calvin, whose steady leadership and presence during a time of widespread uncertainty is a testament to the reliability and professionalism that define our team.

Here’s Calvin’s story, in his own words:

“It was New Year’s Eve in 1999, and while most people were out celebrating, I was at Expressway Tower keeping a close eye on things as we crossed into the year 2000. I was on my own that night, making sure all the building systems were running smoothly. That included everything from HVAC and elevators to security and lighting.

Leading up to that night, I had everything programmed and ready to go. Even with all the prep work, there was still that nagging feeling in the back of my mind that something might go wrong. Nobody really knew what would happen when the clock hit midnight.

Thankfully, everything worked just like it was supposed to. I was relieved and honestly just glad there were no surprises. The best part was being able to head home afterward without any worry that something might fail.

Looking back, what stands out the most is the quiet success of it all. Nothing dramatic happened, but knowing everything went as planned made the whole experience memorable in its own way.”

Calvin’s story is a perfect reminder that not all defining moments are dramatic. Sometimes, it’s the calm, prepared response and the commitment to being present just in case that speaks volumes. His steady presence helped ensure a seamless transition into the new millennium, and it reflects the type of dedication that has helped Gaedeke thrive through every era.

We’re proud to celebrate team members like Calvin, whose consistency and care have helped build Gaedeke’s legacy over the past 30 years.