Carlos Gonzales' embodiment of hard work and dedication were acknowledged recently when he was awarded the highest honor possible for a Verizon Wireless sales representative.

Though employees are aware of the President’s Cabinet Award, Gonzales never imagined that he would be the one to receive such an honor.

“There are some employees with their eyes on the prize,” said Public Relations and Employee Communications representative Heidi Flato. “When we were talking earlier, Carlos said that wasn’t his motivation at all.”

Gonzales believed only in coming into work with a positive attitude, meeting customer needs, and exceeding customer satisfaction. It wasn’t long until customers would come in to the Turlock branch asking specifically to be helped by Carlos, whom they felt to be their trusted source.

The Verizon Wireless President’s Cabinet Award is an honor earned by less than 1 percent of company sales and service professionals. Gonzales first learned that he had won during a kick-off rally in San Francisco where 1,500 of his peers and superiors were invited.

 “I was deeply humbled by that out of the whole Northern California, only three won the award. And being from Turlock, it is a great accomplishment for me,” Gonzales said.

“We are very proud of the eight employees from Northern California, Northern Nevada and the Hawaii Region,” said Flato. “I’m very proud to see Carlos win considering that he is from such a small community.”

The company serves approximately 98.2 million retail customers and has more than 73,000 employees nationwide. It was no easy feat to meet the top percent of sales throughout Verizon Wireless’ customer base, especially coming from a small community.

But Gonzales was able to utilize all the skills he possessed in order to meet the top demographic. He said he owes his success to his family, wife, daughters, and the company who provided him the tools to stretch his career advantages.

“I would also like to thank Turlock and all the surrounding communities. They are the reason I am a success,” said Gonzales. “I do the best I can to give superior service. It is because of my customers that I’ve received this award.”

The honorees and their guests were granted a free five day cruise with company executive leaders and CEO. Gonzales and his wife were able to visit Key West, Fla., the Dominican Republic, and the U.S. Virgin Islands-St. Thomas.

“Being a part of the cruise was a great opportunity to talk and meet with leaders of the business,” said Flato. “You get a chance to network with great sources.”

“I couldn’t believe it. Verizon Wireless had definitely taken care of us. I love our company and the career development,” said Gonzales. “I’m happy I’m here, and I look forward to the future.”

To top off the festivities, Gonzales was also given a plaque that permanently celebrates his efforts in sales for the company he loves.