From the icy terrains of Alaska to spearheading infrastructure innovation across the U.S., Serghei Busmachiu’s journey is as dynamic as the industries he revolutionizes. At the helm of Utilities One Inc., Serghei has turned his vision of bridging service gaps into a thriving enterprise that prioritizes innovation, quality, and people.
With roots in Moldova, his career began as a cable technician, where he identified inefficiencies that later fueled his entrepreneurial leap. Today, Utilities One is not just a company—it’s a testament to Serghei’s relentless drive, resilience, and his unwavering commitment to building something meaningful, from empowering teams to tackling global challenges like post-war reconstruction in Ukraine.
Serghei exemplifies leadership that creates impact far beyond business metrics. Inspires by his leadership approach, we sat down with him to learn more about his journey and visionary approach.
Below are the highlights of the interview:
Your journey from Moldova to becoming the CEO of Utilities One is extraordinary. What inspired you to transition from working as a cable technician to starting your own company?
The inspiration came from recognizing the immense potential within the infrastructure industry. As a cable technician, I noticed inefficiencies and gaps in service delivery. I realized there was an opportunity to create a company that not only filled these gaps but also prioritized innovation, quality, and a people-first approach. That vision, combined with a desire to build something meaningful, led to the creation of Moldcable and later, Utilities One.
Reflecting on your early experiences in the U.S., how did those challenging jobs in Alaska shape your resilience and entrepreneurial mindset?
Working jobs in Alaska, like the ice factory, taught me the value of hard work, perseverance, and adaptability. Those roles, although challenging, instilled a mindset that no job was too small and every experience was a stepping stone. They also reinforced my belief in seizing opportunities and building resilience, qualities that became foundational as I transitioned into entrepreneurship.
Founding Moldcable with just five technicians and growing it into a 500-strong team is remarkable. What lessons from that journey influenced the establishment of Utilities One?
The biggest lesson was the importance of building and empowering a strong team. Moldcable’s growth showed me that success lies in collaboration, clear vision, and adaptability. These principles became the blueprint for Utilities One. Additionally, understanding client needs and delivering consistent quality proved invaluable as we expanded into broader industries.
You emphasize a “people-first approach” in leadership. Can you share a specific example of how this philosophy has impacted Utilities One’s success?
One example is the way we invest in employee growth. At Utilities One, we’ve established programs that promote from within, offering training and development opportunities for employees to advance their careers. This approach has not only increased morale but also created a culture of loyalty and high performance, which directly impacts the quality of our services.
Your vision includes participating in global projects like post-war reconstruction in Ukraine. How do you see Utilities One contributing to such initiatives?
Utilities One’s expertise in infrastructure development positions us as a valuable partner for reconstruction efforts. We can contribute by deploying advanced technologies, efficient project management, and sustainable solutions to rebuild critical infrastructure. Our experience in challenging environments equips us to handle complex projects like these.
The telecommunications and utilities sectors are constantly evolving. What trends do you think will define the next decade in these industries?
Key trends will include the expansion of renewable energy integration, the widespread adoption of 5G and beyond, and the digitization of utility management. Additionally, the focus on sustainability and resilience in infrastructure will drive innovation. Companies will need to adapt to smart technologies and prioritize environmental considerations to stay ahead.
What does success mean to you personally, and how do you measure it beyond business achievements?
Success, to me, is about impact—creating opportunities for others, contributing to communities, and leaving a lasting positive legacy. Beyond business achievements, I measure success by the growth and happiness of my team, the satisfaction of our clients, and the difference our work makes in people’s lives.
If you could sum up the legacy you wish to leave behind, both as a leader and an individual, in a single sentence, what would it be?
I want to be remembered as a leader who empowered others, embraced innovation, and built a foundation for sustainable growth that positively impacted lives and communities.
From Moldova to leading a major U.S. company, your story is an inspiration. What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs who face similar challenges?
My advice is simple: never stop learning, embrace challenges as opportunities, and believe in your vision even when others doubt you. Surround yourself with people who share your values, and remember that success is a journey, not a destination. Resilience and hard work will always pay off.
