From Fire Service to Energy Leadership: Tyler Episcopo’s Journey in Indiana’s Advanced Industries

When you think about Indiana careers in energy and infrastructure, names like CenterPoint Energy lead the way. For Tyler Episcopo, a Gas Operations Supervisor, his path into one of Indiana’s advanced industries started with a simple desire: to serve others.

Serving Others - From Firefighting to Natural Gas

Tyler’s career journey began at just 15 years old when he joined the fire service in his hometown of Corydon, Indiana. That early experience instilled a sense of discipline, leadership, and commitment to safety—skills that would later shape his professional success. After graduating from high school, Tyler pursued a degree in fire science at Vincennes University. However, with age restrictions delaying his ability to become a full-time firefighter, he found himself seeking new job opportunities in Indiana. 

A job as a laborer with Miller Pipeline introduced Tyler to a new field: natural gas infrastructure. "When they told me I'd be putting pipes in the ground, I had no idea that even existed," he laughs. What began as an unexpected job soon evolved into a fulfilling career path at CenterPoint Energy. 

Why Indiana - and CenterPoint Energy - Remains Home

Today, Tyler remains rooted in Indiana, close to family in Harrison County. “Indiana's home,” he says simply. While opportunities might exist elsewhere, Tyler believes Indiana careers offer the chance to grow personally and professionally, without leaving behind the people and places that matter most. 

At CenterPoint Energy, Tyler leads a team of eight employees responsible for maintaining and operating natural gas measurement and regulation facilities. Their work ensures that energy flows safely into homes and businesses across the state, supporting everything from heating to cooking to hot water needs. 

The Heart of Safe Energy Delivery 

In his role, Tyler doesn’t just put safety first; he teaches others how to do the same. "Safety is a top priority at CenterPoint Energy," he emphasizes. Beyond daily operations, he has taken on leadership roles to promote workplace safety culture, including leading and sponsoring the company’s Safety Core Team. 

The work isn’t just critical—it’s innovative. Tyler and his team are helping CenterPoint Energy modernize Indiana’s energy infrastructure, replacing outdated pipes with modern materials and installing innovative metering technologies. These improvements ensure safer, more reliable natural gas delivery for generations to come. 

Building Leadership from Within 

Reflecting on his career journey, Tyler shares valuable lessons for anyone exploring natural gas jobs or other advanced industries in Indiana: 

• Leadership starts within. "You have to look in the mirror and ask yourself: Would you want you leading you?" 
• Hold yourself to high standards. Tyler believes that leaders must operate by the same standards they hold for others. 
• Never quit. Persistence and discipline are crucial. "You can't fail if you don't give up." 

For Tyler, career growth has meant continually evolving—learning new technical skills, adapting to challenges, and fostering strong teamwork. "Inspiring others starts by being better than you were yesterday," he says. 

Energizing Indiana’s Future 

As Indiana continues to invest in advanced industries, job opportunities in energy, infrastructure, and technology are growing. Leaders like Tyler Episcopo are proving that meaningful, rewarding careers don’t just happen elsewhere—they’re being built right here at home. 

Explore more natural gas jobs and Indiana careers by visiting the See Yourself IN website. Whether you’re just starting or seeking a new direction, Indiana’s advanced industries offer opportunities to lead, serve, and thrive.