Meet Bobby Johnson: A Gaithersburg Employee for 40 Years

He’s worked for the city of Gaithersburg longer than any other employee.

Robert “Bobby” Johnson celebrated 40 years with the city on September 10.

Now supervisor of the Mowing & Bulk Pickup crews in the Public Works Department, Johnson started his career with Gaithersburg as a fulltime “maintenance man” in 1973.  By 1978 he had been promoted to crew leader, and has been leading Public Works teams ever since.  Prior to his employment with the city, Johnson served in the U.S. Navy from 1969 to 1973.

“Without question, Bobby is our ‘go to’ guy,” said Jim Arnoult, public works director.  “Those of us who work most closely with him know that he is willing to do anything and everything for this City.  I think what speaks volumes is that in the 40 years he’s worked here, he’s amassed an impressive collection of kudos and thank you letters from residents, validating not only his exceptional performance as a City employee, but also his reputation for outstanding customer service.”

Johnson has received recognition as a member of the “Team of the Year” three times, was named “Employee of the Quarter” twice, and was named “Employee of the Year” in 1999.  In that award, Johnson was cited for his “selflessness, his dedication to Gaithersburg, his commitment to providing quality service, and his overall work ethic.”

“If you would have asked me back in 1973 if I’d still be working for the City of Gaithersburg 40 years later, I wouldn’t have believed it.  But that time sure flew by,” said Johnson.  “I think back on all the median strips that were mowed, all of the parade routes that were set up, and all of the cleanup that was done after storms, and it reminds me that I’m really lucky to have had the chance to help this community for so long.”

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