September October 2014 Basin Today

Bringing light to Haiti

Contents Volume 17

Number 5

Read more about Basin Electric’s “Journey to joining SPP” in a three-part feature series in Basin Today: http://bit.ly/BasinToday

On the cover: Member co-op employees Josh Hoffman and Jody Bruce had an opportunity to go to Haiti on behalf of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association to help construct transmission lines and teach residents about safe and reliable electricity.

In Every Issue 1 CEO and General Manager’s Column: Paul Sukut 11 Member Focus: Lighting the way 14 Feature Series: A day in the life of ... Dan Job 16 News Briefs 18 Employee Highlights Feature Stories 2 Paving the road in the journey to joining SPP 6 Our Power, My Safety driving change at Basin Electric 8 Beyond electrons

Editor: Andrea Blowers, ablowers@bepc.com Publications Manager: Mary Miller Graphic Designer: Nicole Perreault Photographers: Steve Crane & Chelsy Ciavarella Contributors: Tracie Bettenhausen, Tammy Langerud, Chris Gessele, Dain Sullivan, Lindsey DeKrey & Joan Dietz

Use your smartphone barcode scanner to view stories online.

CEO and General Manager’s Column:

Paul Sukut A summer of serious work

As summer comes to a close, I hope your photo albums are filled with snapshots of summer vacations, time outdoors and family time. Basin Electric’s summer included Family Night celebrations, the United Way Day of Caring, and the first season of Basin Electric’s own backyard garden, whose crops fed many hungry mouths in the community.

Our summer also included a lot of hard work and milestones. The board made the important decision to join the Southwest Power Pool in July. Now, the integration work begins. We also received the go-ahead to build Phase III of both Pioneer and Lonesome Creek stations, adding another 90 megawatts of peaking power to our generation mix.

These units will help serve the ever-growing load in the Williston Basin.

Most recently, Basin Electric representatives testified at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) hearings in Denver and Washington, D.C., July 29-30 on the proposed Section 111(d) rule of the Clean Air Act, which calls for the reduction of carbon dioxide from existing generation units.

The proposed rule is ambiguous at best. Each state within our membership is impacted differently. While we believe a comprehensive legislative solution would’ve been far preferable to this ad-hoc regulatory approach, these are the cards we’ve been dealt. We must work our way through this process, understand the implications of the rule and search for a workable solution within this framework.

We believe central to it is the option for multi-state plans.

With Basin Electric operating in nine states, it just doesn’t make sense for each state to develop a compliance plan when there is overlap and transfer of power between states.

While it will involve deep collaboration and cooperation, we believe the collective minds of many will help bring the carbon dioxide levels down in a way that makes economic and logical sense for those states.

Additionally, we’d like to see credit for the early action we’ve already undertaken with our carbon capture project at our Great Plains Synfuels Plant. Through Dakota Gasification

Company, the Synfuels Plant has captured and delivered more than 28 million tons of CO2 for ultimate sequestration in oil fields in southern Saskatchewan.

As cooperatives, we’re in a unique situation in that the bulk of our baseload generation was built in the early 1980s when we were under the Fuel Usage Act of 1978, which prohibited the building of generation facilities fueled by natural gas. Because of this law, coal was our only viable choice. We designed and built our power plants to operate at maximum efficiency. However, as technology advances, there may be opportunities to improve generating efficiency, but current New Source Review (NSR) rules don’t allow projects that result in higher levels of efficiency. We’d like to see EPA ensure that energy efficiency improvements approved by a state plan do not trigger NSR. These are just a small portion of the comments we made during our hearings.

I’d be remiss if I didn’t step back, however, and look at our tremendous record of innovation and environmental stewardship. In the past decade, we’ve made great strides in diversifying our generation portfolio. We made the decision to diversify years ago, realizing that it was only prudent to provide our members with electricity coming from a variety of sources. Coal remains our bedrock and still represents about 60 percent of our generation capacity profile. We believe a reasonable energy path moving forward must include coal. While I am proud of our clean power plants, I am committed to continuing our efforts of innovation and ingenuity. Cooperatives were born out of those two principles – coupled with a deep commitment to serve members. It’s the story of our past, and it’ll be the story of our future.

Paul Sukut, CEO and general manager

September - October 2014

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Paving the road in the journey to joining SPP Marketing addresses tasks to help ensure smooth SPP membership transition

By Andrea Blowers

It’s taken more than two years of intense evaluaBasin Electric’s board of directors agreed with staff’s tion and analysis; before that, a decade of meetings and recommendation and, at their July meeting, the directors discussions. authorized Basin Electric to join SPP, the RTO to the south.

The decision to join a regional transmission organization The course to this decision has been somewhat uncharted, (RTO) has been anything but quick and straightforward, and though it may seem that reaching the decision to join especially for an organization as complex as Basin Electric, was the ultimate goal, it was really only half the journey. a generation and transmission (G&T) cooperative that For Basin Electric, its membership and the IS partners, the provides electricity for other cooperatives – G&Ts and distritasks yet to be addressed and fully vetted will take another bution co-ops that ultimately serve 16 months. Full membership in SPP will the end consumer. In addition, Basin not happen until Oct. 1, 2015.

From cost, benefits, t r a n s m i s s ion , m a rke t Electric has worked in partnership From here, Basin Electric staff and access, philosophical and with Western Area Power Adminismembers will charge ahead tackling the geographic standpoints, tration and Heartland Consumers tasks and outlining the details of integrajoining SPP became our Power District over decades to build tion for each of the eight defined areas of best option. a robust transmission infrastructure, concentration: operations, transmission Mike Risan the Integrated System (IS). planning/engineering, information techIn its own way, the IS has been nology, regulatory, compliance, markets, like a mini transmission organization. settlements and training.

However, with the creation of surrounding RTOs, the IS Part of those integration efforts reside in understanding became somewhat of an island, excluded from access to how the SPP marketplace functions. Marketing & Asset neighboring RTO’s market power. The boundaries of the Management Vice President Ken Rutter says in an RTO region and limited access to markets caused constraints there are two markets – a day-ahead market and a real in times of surplus generation or when the members time market. required more power.

“The day-ahead market is a kind of setup for what and how people think the real time is going to operate,” he says.

“Ultimately, we had to balance the needs of our member“At 11 a.m., the day before, we offer our generation units ship,” says Mike Risan, Basin Electric senior vice president into the marketplace. We find out at 4 p.m. if they clear and of Transmission. “Basin Electric is charged with providwhat price they cleared for. Then, later that evening, right ing power for our members at the lowest possible cost. before real time, SPP begins running their real time models, From cost, benefits, transmission, market access, philosophwhich essentially gives the five-minute price signals to ical and geographic standpoints, joining SPP (Southwest the marketplace. These should pretty closely replicate the Power Pool) became our best option.” day-ahead market,” Rutter says.

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Basin Today

Read more about Basin Electric’s “Journey to joining SPP” in a three-part feature series in Basin Today: http://bit.ly/BasinToday

Rutter has been making trips with John Jacobs, vice “The reason we have a different market for real time is president of plant operations, to each of the facilities to talk because weather changes, loads can vary, units trip, the with the plant operators and staff. The overall message wind can pick up and different things happen where more during these trips is that Basin Electric is going to make or less generation is needed. So, every five minutes then every effort to replicate how the cooperative operates the real time market gives a new price signal and a new today, but still take advantage of the fact that it will have dispatch signal from the marketplace, which will be the real access to a broader marketplace. signal in terms of how the unit will operate.”

“There’s a lot of training for everyone involved,” Rutter That doesn’t necessarily mean the cooperative’s baseload says. “For example, one of the other units are going to be ramped up and elements in an RTO market is market down at five minute intervals. “We This has certainly monitors. These monitors ensure there’s can fully control how we operate our been a journey and we’re no gaming in the market. They have rules units in the marketplace,” Rutter says. learning every day, but as in terms of how you can offer units, so “It’s critical that we understand our they say, it’s the journey that an organization can’t manipulate the unit dispatch costs and structure our teaches you a lot about your market. The market monitors test each generation offers in the marketplace destination. organization’s offers every day and if in order to maximize the value of the Ken Rutter they believe you’re violating rules, you’ll membership.” be penalized.”

Rutter says every day Basin Electric Rutter says ensuring his staff is will put in its offers for all of its generaproperly trained and advised on these nuances of SPP tion on how the cooperative wants the units to run, for how membership are vital to successful operation within an RTO. long and other parameters. “We have control, in large part, as In addition to training, other tasks on the marketing to how each of our units will operate in SPP. It’s a balancing group’s to do list include determining the software for act. Our goal is to have the baseload units baseloaded.” tagging and scheduling in the market, ensuring they have Rutter acknowledges the process will not be successful a full staff, defining their strategy for moving power west without good communication between the marketing group to east and east to west across the DC ties, congestion and the folks at the plants. modeling and a number of other tasks.

“At this stage of development, this is one of the most ”There’s a lot to do from all areas of the cooperative,” important tasks,” Rutter says. “We want to ensure the Rutter says. “Communication is going to be key to all our employees at the plant sites have a good understanding of integration efforts. This has certainly been a journey and how the SPP market functions and how we’ll be working we’re learning every day, but as they say, it’s the journey within that market, and we need to have a good understandthat teaches you a lot about your destination.” ing of how each of the plants operate.”

September - October 2014

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In the journey to joining SPP ...

October 1, 2015 Basin Electric integrates with SPP

July 2014 – October 2015 Ongoing integration activities

August 1, 2014 SPP FERC filing

July July 16, 16, 2014 2014 Basin Basin Electric’s Electric’s board board authorizes authorizes co-op co-op to to join join SPP SPP

July 8, 2014 Heartland’s board approves SPP membership July 9, 2014 Western’s administrator approves SPP membership

June 9, 2014 SPP’s board approves tariff changes making it possible for IS to join

January 2014 Western begins formal negotiations with SPP

November 2013 Western begins federal process

2013

Complete member communication sessions Board resolutions to support Western & begin negotiations with SPP

2012

Start major RTO review Work with Basin Electric members & IS partners Begin economic evaluation

2002 through 2012

Debate RTO membership

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Warren Herman, Dakota Gasification Company emergency response coordinator, inspects scaffolding at the Great Plains Synfuels Plant, which is item No. 9 on the plant’s “Our Power, My Safety” Condition Inspection Checklist.

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TY

OUR P

OWER

MY SA

Our Power, My Safety driving change at Basin Electric

By Chris Gessele

It’s easy to preach about safety, but those words fall flat and meaningless without passion and conviction.

It also doesn’t take much effort to practice safety whenever the notion crosses your mind.

But what does it take to enact true change, from the top of an organization to the bottom, and instill a realization that forgetting about safety in the workplace or at home – for even a split second – can have the worst of consequences?

Brian Kahler, assistant mechanical supervisor at Laramie River Station, has a very powerful motivator to keep safety top of mind.

“I have a little girl, and I want to make sure she’s safe and has a safe place to grow up,” Kahler says. “I want to instill in her the responsibility to be safe. Safety is just as important at home as it is at the workplace.”

Kahler is part of Basin Electric’s cooperative-wide effort to create a culture of safety awareness, a campaign called, Our Power, My Safety. It’s well under way at Basin Electric’s Laramie River Station near Wheatland, WY, and Dakota Gasification Company’s Great Plains Synfuels Plant near Beulah, ND, and will soon be implemented at all remaining facilities.

Our Power, My Safety

Caterpillar Safety Services Zero-Incident Performance (ZIP™) Process, which is guiding the campaign, is giving Basin Electric’s employees and management the framework within which to create a culture of safety. It includes a six-step process. Read more about each step: http://bit. ly/CATSafetyZIP. 6

Basin Today

Our Power, My Safety consists of a series of eight-member Continuous Improvement Teams, each tasked with devising a Continuous Improvement Initiative to implement into all of the cooperative’s facilities.

Members of each Continuous Improvement Team are selected by the 15-member Steering Team, led by Quinn Messer, Dakota Gas field maintenance technician.

The first Continuous Improvement Initiative, improved inspections for working conditions, was identified in February

by Continuous Improvement Team #1, led by Jon Stanley, mechanic/welder at Laramie River. The initiative was chosen based on results of an employee safety perception survey conducted in 2013.

The process highlights positive acts, identifies and prioritizes working-area conditions, provides an opportunity for improvement, and calls for timely follow-up for unsafe conditions.

Seeing change

The pilot initiative was rolled out at Laramie River in March, and according to results of six-week and 12-week employee surveys, it’s so far, so good.

“It’s going really well,” Stanley says. “There has been a lot of discussion on finding activities that meet our needs a bit better, such as adjusting frequency of inspections to make it easier on the folks on the front lines. That flexibility is necessary in the culture change process.”

Following the program’s successful pilot at Laramie River, the Our Power, My Safety inspection initiative was implemented to employees at the Synfuels Plant in May. Dakota Gas’ customized safety initiative is focusing on physical condition inspections.

TEAM

CI

#1

ETY

Team leader: Jonivan Stanley – Laramie River Dan Leingang – Leland Olds Station Justin Feil – Antelope Valley Station Guy Olson – Dry Fork Station Ryan Brink – Wyoming TSM Eric Schwab – Antelope Valley Station ER Daniel Vega – Dakota Gas OW Brad Autro – Deer Creek Station

AF

Continuous Improvement Team #1 is readying to roll out the process cooperative-wide, with hopes that each individual facility will customize the initiative to best fit their needs.

Continuous Improvement Team #2 will be holding a Rapid Improvement Workshop in September to start working on its initiative: safety communications.

Continuous Improvement Team #1

OUR P

What’s next?

Team leader: Quinn Messer – Dakota Gas Bob Bartosh – Dakota Coal Brad Thompson – Laramie River Station Bradley Schneider – PrairieWinds ND 1 Dale Johnson – Dakota Gas Dan Cieslak – Deer Creek Station Derrick Freese – South Dakota TSM Gordon Goetz – Leland Olds Station Kelly Cozby – Headquarters Lucas Teigen – Headquarters Roberta Ford – Antelope Valley Station Russ Bosch – Leland Olds Station Ryan Wolf – Dakota Gas Shawn Benton – Laramie River Station Stewart Blessing – Dry Fork Station

TEE IN R

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A key driver in the early success of the Our Power, My Safety campaign is full participation of Basin Electric’s senior management.

“I think it’s essential that there’s commitment from the top to the bottom,” Kahler says. “Upper management is just as important as the person on the floor and the level of commitment has to be equally strong for this program to work. Upper management is committed and they are behind this 100 percent.”

Basin Electric CEO and General Manager Paul Sukut has expressed his support of Our Power, My Safety from the very beginning.

“Safety is this cooperative’s number one priority and that will not be compromised,” he says. “I have full faith in the dedication and capabilities of the employees on our Steering and Continuous Improvement teams, and our goal would be to have all employees involved as we continue toward our goal of zero safety and health incidents.”

Steering Team

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From top to bottom

OUR POWE

At the Synfuels Plant, employees have developed condiThe ultimate goals of Our Power, My Safety are to turn tion inspection checklists for employees in various work safety into a habit, and build a culture where managers and areas of the plant. As with Laramie River, feedback from supervisors are visibly committed, involved and performancefocused; employees are actively participating; and the system the six-week Dakota Gas employee survey is promising. is flexible.

“I think in the early stages, everybody was apprehensive “I think safety is a lot more in the limelight. It was always about what it was about and what their responsibilities were there, but we’ve really ramped up the safety awareness both going to be. It needs some tweaking, but as far as work area on and off the job. It keeps us reminded that we can’t get cleanliness and safety goes, issues are being taken care of complacent,” Kahler says. and a lot is being completed already,” Messer says. “Some “We’re all family at these facilities. We spend a tremendous of the approval percentages from that initial employee amount of time together, and I don’t want to see anybody get survey to a recent survey have gone from pretty good to injured from something that’s completely preventable,” Stanley really, really good, so we’re headed in the right direction.” says. “I think this process will allow us to zero in on potential One major emphasis of the program’s early implementahazards and get those things corrected, but we can’t get tion is to focus as much on what’s being done right as what caught up in the numbers. I think the most important thing to could be improved. remember is that it really comes down to changing the culture, “If you see something that could be improved – grading, and continuing conversations about safety, and continuing handrail – you’re going to write it up. That’s second nature,” to work toward achieving our goal of zero safety incidents.”

Kahler says. “But what’s not second nature is seeing the good in something. We’re getting better at that; you can see a change. People have a sense of ownership in their MY SAFETY R, work area that they didn’t see or feel before.”

MY S

Beyond electrons

Electric cooperatives improve quality of life

By Tracie Bettenhausen What sets a cooperative apart from the rest of the business world? One important value is this: to improve the quality of life of its members and communities.

This summer, four Basin Electric Class C cooperatives — all celebrating 75 years in business this year — shared how their co-op is improving quality of life in their communities.

Agralite Electric Cooperative Benson, MN

Summer meals for kids At first, people didn’t believe it. “There are no hungry people in Benson,” they said.

But when Pastor William Warnock of Pilgrim Congregational United Church of Christ did his research, he found statistics that made believers out of the doubtful.

Warnock and the Pilgrim congregation wondered what the kids who qualify for free lunch at school do during the summer. Upon further research, he found that 84 percent on the south side of Benson and 48 percent on the north side of Benson would qualify for free lunches during the summer.

Motivated to make sure the kids had enough food, Warnock applied for a U.S. Department of Agriculture grant to help pay for the food, and this summer, the church served nearly 1,700 meals to children ages one through 18.

It was the Operation Round Up money the church received from Agralite Electric Cooperative that made all the difference. “They gave more than we expected,” he says.

Warnock presents a report to the co-op’s Operation Round Up board to show them how the $1,000 they give each year is used. “Because of their donation, we could serve the kids ice cream cones, give them little trinkets like blowing bubbles, and also use paper plates and plastic

In honor of their 75th anniversary this summer, Agralite Electric handed out $750,000 in capital credits at their annual meeting.

silverware. That last one is huge because it’s all volunteers who run these lunches,” Warnock says. He says it might seem small, but he wants the kids to know they’re loved.

Warnock says the co-op’s support is just what they need to keep the program running. “I would like to print out one of those giant checks and write on it, ‘Thanks a million!’ and give it to them (Agralite),” he says.

West River Electric Association Wall, SD

Youth leadership opportunities Can you pin-point a n event t hat sparked your imagination and led you to where you are today?

For R idge Sandal, a graduate of Wall High Ridge Sandal (left) became a legislative page after going on the Youth Tour.

School, that expePictured here with West River Electric r ience was t he General Manager Dick Johnson.

2013 South Dakota Rural Electric Youth Tour where he learned about electric cooperative history. The tour is sponsored by West River Electric Association.

Operation Round Up is a program used by many electric cooperatives. Participating co-op customers can choose to “round up” their electric bills to the nearest dollar amount. Those extra cents go into a fund and are donated to qualified applicants.

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Basin Today

“I’d never been to Washington, D.C., before,” he says.

“I just learned there is limitless potential when people get together to create something. You can do big things.”

Sandal liked how democracy in action can be used in business. “Everybody has input, and it makes you part owner. If you have ownership in something, there is a sense of responsibility. I like that,” he says.

When he got home, he signed up to be a legislative page in the South Dakota House of Representatives. He worked for two weeks in February this year for Rep. Elizabeth May (R-District 27).

This fall, Sandal is going to South Dakota State University in Brookings, SD, to major in agriculture economics and minor in marketing and accounting.

Verendrye Electric Cooperative Velva, ND

Zero-interest loans for services

For the Velva, ND, fire departments, both city and rural, a harsh reality comes with the oil boom of western North Dakota.

The trucks on the road make a difference in how they must respond. “The accidents are getting more violent,” says Mike Heisler, fire chief. “Our trucks don’t have the appropriate space to carry the equipment we need.”

Velva Rural’s newest truck was a 1984 model, and the city’s newest was a 1975. Heisler says the departments were “beyond what we should be running.”

While the departments were weighing their options on how to proceed, they learned they could work with Verendrye Electric Cooperative to get a zero-or-low-interest loan from Lyon-Lincoln Electric Cooperative the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s REDLG (Rural Economic Tyler, MN Development Loan And Grant) program.

Lead donation on new cancer center After helping Randy Hauck, Verendrye’s assistant The American Cancer Society shows that in Minnesota, manager and member services manager, fill out the paperthe southwest region of the state is top of the list for breast work, the rural department received $160,000 in a zero-interest cancer mortality, and among loan, which pays for about the highest mortality rates two-thirds of the truck.

Lyon-Lincoln Electric pledged $25,000 for prostate and colon/rectal “We’re fortunate the for the proposed Avera Cancer Insticancer, and tops for cervical loa n appl ication was tute Marshall, and East River Electric cancer incidence rates. accepted,” Hauck says.

Power Cooperative and Basin Electric In that area, par tially “The organizations need each added $12,500. served by Lyon-Lincoln Electo be able to show finantric Cooperative, patients have cially they can pay the to make a nearly four-hour round-trip drive daily to get loan back, and they’re scored on that. It’s pretty rare to radiation treatments. get these, and we were happy we could help.”

That’s why Lyon-Lincoln Electric was one of the first Verendrye Electric has only received one other loan to support the proposed Avera Cancer Institute Marshall, like this. The cooperative helped ABC Kids Academy a cancer treatment facility that will serve an eight-county receive a $360,000 zero-interest loan for a new daycare in area. It is expected to treat more than 300 patients per year Berthold, ND. The child care center opened in 2012 and for radiation alone, and many more with chemotherapy. accommodates 65 children, alleviating the urgent need for Lyon-Lincoln Electric pledged $25,000, and East River daycare in another town affected by the oil boom.

Electric Power Cooperative, a Basin Electric Class A member headquartered in Madison, SD, and Basin Electric each added $12,500.

Sandy Ludeman, Lyon-Lincoln board chair, and his wife, Peggy, are both cancer survivors. “A cancer diagnosis for each of us just years apart, was a scary journey of tests, radiation, chemotherapy and surgeries. Six to seven weeks of daily travel for treatment several hours away was physically and mentally exhausting, even with the support of family and friends,” Ludeman says. “Thankfully, we are survivors, due to answered prayers and modern medicine.

Mike Heisler (left), Velva Rural fire chief, and Rob Goldade, asAvera’s new cancer center would make care and treatment sistant fire chief, say this new truck will help response in the growing area. much easier with support systems closer to home.”

September - October 2014

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Meet your director …

Leo Brekel District 5, Tri-State G&T Association

By Tracie Bettenhausen A new director joined the Basin Electric board in July. Leo Brekel of District 5, Tri-State G&T Association, headquartered in Denver, CO. Brekel is part of the 11-member board that directs the business and affairs of Basin Electric.

Each director is elected to a three-year term representing one of 11 membership districts.

Brekel is a long-time director for Highline Electric Association, headquartered in Holyoke, CO, with branch offices in Sterling, CO, and Ovid, CO. He has served on that board since 1995. In 2003, he was elected to represent his cooperative on Tri-State’s board. In July 2014, he was elected to replace Marshall Collins on Basin Electric’s board.

He served on the Trapper Mining board from July 2009 until July 2014. Trapper Mining in Craig, CO, is a surface coal mine that produces nearly 2 million tons of coal per year. The mine is operated by Tri-State G&T. He has a wheat farm south of Fleming, CO, and is retired from his position as physical plant director at Northeastern Junior College in Sterling.

When you’re not wearing your REC hat, what are you doing?

We have a small farm south of Fleming. In between, my son-in-law and his father operate two feed yards up

by Holdrege, NE, so I do some of their feed yard work. It gives me the opportunity to see my grandchildren as well.

I started a coin collection. My favorite coin is the Morgan Silver Dollar. I just like the looks of it and the history of it. I have quite a few silver dollars and I have a Mercury Dime for every year they were made.

Coming on as a director at Basin Electric, what was the most surprising thing you learned?

There’s really nothing that was a horrible surprise. I think the staff is very thorough; I enjoy the detail of what they presented. You’re always a bit apprehensive coming to your first meeting but everyone has been so good to me. You could call them “down home country folks” like I am. I just appreciated the welcome; everybody just made me feel at home.

What inspired you to want to serve RECs? I was born and raised on a farm and my parents just thought the world of Highline Electric Association; I don’t think they ever missed a meeting. That was true for the local co-op elevator as well, so co-ops were just part of my growing up.

I think the cooperative model is just a superb model to be governed by, and I wanted to be a part of that and maybe help my neighbor in the process. You get a vote.

We operate non-profit, so you share in any margins. You can call your local director and complain about something if you need to.

It’s nice the co-op jumps in and does things in the community, especially when something nasty happens. I remember in 2001 we had a real nasty blizzard and co-ops sent crews all around to help rebuild the system. People helping people is just a good way of life.

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Basin Today

What role do you see Basin Electric playing in rural America in the next 20 years?

I still see Basin supplying the power they supply now plus a lot more. I think it’s important that we keep the rural co-ops and our G&Ts simply because even to this day, the IOUs (investor owned utilities) were very selective about what they would serve, and I think somebody needs to fill that gap.

What is your philosophy for serving on a co-op board?

I have a bit of a philosophy. First of all, I want to find out as much as I can about the issues and then decide: is it good for the cooperative and is it good for the end use consumer? And that’s the way I prefer to vote.

Member Focus

Lighting the way

Linemen usher in bright future for Haitian town

Josh Hoffman (kneeling with sunglasses and gray shirt), of Northern Plains Electric, poses for a group photo with other volunteers and Haitian linemen.

By Dain Sullivan Leave it to linemen Josh Hoffman and Jody Bruce to clothes for myself because I was getting a little full on stuff find hope in a glow stick.

I was giving away to the kids.”

Not long after their plane landed on Light – it’s a precious thing to Haitian soil in mid-March, word quickly the people of Caracol, who until two We got down there spread throughout the coastal town of years ago were completely without and it was nothing but Caracol that the two visitors were giftpower. It’s these very people who appreciation for us being ing the neon tubes to locals they met remain haunted by nightmares of a there. It was pretty gratifyon the street.

7.0 magnitude earthquake that shook ing, to say the least.

The glow sticks were a hit, making the country in 2010.

Jody Bruce Hoffman and Bruce instant celebrities Hoffman and Bruce visited Haiti on within the town. behalf of the National Rural Electric “You’d have 10 to 15 little kids, to Cooperative Association (NRECA), 80-year-old grandpas following you around, just watchand their mission was clear: teach the people about safe, ing you,” Hoffman chuckles. “I didn’t bring a whole lot of reliable and affordable electricity.

September - October 2014

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Member Focus

A group of local kids gather with Josh Hoffman (far left) and other volunteers.

A warm welcome

“I didn’t think people would recognize me,” he says.

Bruce, of Basin Electric member Verendrye Electric Hoffman, of Basin Electric Class C member Northern Cooperative, also received a friendly greeting. He was Plains Electric, was alone when he first visited Caracol in amazed to see the joy in those who had thrived from having 2012. His initial trip lasted three weeks, during which he electricity in recent years. rallied a group of locals who wished to receive line training.

“We got down there and it was This year, when Hoffman returned nothing but appreciation for us being to Haiti for two weeks with Bruce, This progress gives the people a there,” Bruce says. “It was pretty as part of the NRECA International chance to succeed and have decentgratifying, to say the least.” program, he was pleasantly surprised paying jobs, and will hopefully grow Receiv i ng s uch a s p ecia l at the amount of progress that had their economy. It opens the door to a welcome was especially meaningful been made within the community whole world of opportunities.

Jody Bruce for Bruce. In order to help the people since his last visit. of Haiti, he had to be away from his The electrical infrastructure he daughter and wife, who is expecting helped build had made way for new the couple’s second child. businesses, factories and a better way of life for the locals.

“We had a lot to think about on the home front,” he says.

“When I first went down there, there was nothing. They While it was tough to be away from loved ones, the didn’t have power there,” he says. “Everything changed.”

American linemen felt strongly about the task at hand.

As Bruce looked closer, he, too, saw a promising future They had two weeks, and it was time to go to work. for Caracol.

“This progress gives the people a chance to succeed and have decent-paying jobs, and will hopefully grow their A time to learn, reflect economy,” Bruce says. “It opens the door to a whole world Bonded by a history that began in line school, there of opportunities.” was no denying Hoffman and Bruce work well together.

The more Hoffman continued to look around, the more The two were friends prior to the trip, and it was Hoffpeople started to recognize him from his previous trip. Some man who convinced Bruce to visit Haiti. of the newly trained linemen had kept in touch with him “I got a phone call saying, ‘Hey, what do you think through Facebook, and were thrilled to have him back in Haiti. about going to Haiti?’ I’m like, ‘Sure, I’ll do that,’” Bruce 12

Basin Today

says. “Josh really spoke highly of it. It seemed like it was An extended cooperative family a good fit for me.”

It wasn’t all business when Hoffman and Bruce visited For Bruce, a good fit means building things with his Haiti. Between their long hours of construction, the two own two hands and mentoring those eager to learn a took time to get to know the people. valuable trade.

Whether it was visiting a local orphanage or play“We did the construction side of things, as far as building soccer with neighborhood kids, the North Dakota ing the line, but we were also there to teach and train the linemen enjoyed bonding with those who would benefit linemen,” he says. “It was everything from the electrical infrastructure from teaching them how to climb, they were helping make possible.

To be able to see a light to teaching them how to string wire They also had a chance to meet come on at night and the look and set poles.” with Ambassador to the Repubon peoples’ faces is something The days were very labor-intenlic of Haiti Pamela White, who I’ll never forget. sive, Bruce says. The workers’ digger expressed her strong support of Josh Hoffman truck broke down regularly, leaving the work they were doing. holes to be dug by hand.

The two were also supposed While the building process was to meet with Haitian President slow, it reminded Hoffman and Bruce of their cooperative Michel Martelly, but a conflict delayed his arrival until roots. They thought back to what life must have been like after Hoffman and Bruce were on their way back to when member-owners started each of their distribution the States. cooperatives.

“I looked at it like taking a little step back in time,” A tale of two linemen Bruce says.

Hoffman and Bruce helped so many through their Hoffman agrees. “It’s just a whole different appreciation efforts in Haiti, but the two insist it’s no big deal. Neither in Haiti, like how it was 50 years ago around Basin Electric’s one will acknowledge the term “hero,” even if the people current service area,” Hoffman says. of Haiti see them that way.

Hoffman and Bruce weren’t the only ones NRECA sent “I don’t feel like it’s anything super great. I have a certain to Haiti. The two-man team said professionals of all trades, set of skills, and I felt that I would like to develop those such as bill pay and management, made the journey. skills in other people,” Bruce says. “It was just something Make no mistake. A cooperative has been born in I had to do.”

Caracol. Both North Dakota linemen can attest to that.

Hoffman feels the same, and adds that any lineman “It’s just full-blown cooperative,” Bruce says. “Where would benefit from a similar service trip. everything down there is owned or run by the government, “The amount of gratification you get from it is something this isn’t. This is something that the people are part of and that’s hard to explain to people,” Hoffman says. “It’s a pretty they get to own.” cool experience.”

Hoffman could see cooperative pride grow with every Both men say their respective co-ops supported pole placed in the ground. them in leaving work to visit Haiti. Some of the vacation “The people of Haiti are getting opportunities like we hours needed for the Haitian mission were donated by have every day,” he says. “It’s a step in the right direction the co-op family. for them.”

Whether the two admit it or not, their work has brought It’s easy for Hoffman and Bruce to share in the Haitians’ more than physical light to Caracol, it’s sparked light in the excitement. The two are helping make history in the hearts and minds of its residents. country, and seeing the fruits of their labor firsthand has Both say they wish to return to the small community been life-changing. one day.

“To be able to see a light come on at night and the look on Watch a video made using Hoffman’s GoPro point-ofpeoples’ faces is something I’ll never forget,” Hoffman says. view footage from Haiti at http://bit.ly/NDLinemenHaiti.

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Feature Series

A day in the life of … building superintendent

Dan Job

By Tammy Langerud Observing Dan Job interact with his team, other Basin Electric employees and contractors is like watching the best of leadership practices unfold before your eyes. Job’s humble approach to leadership mirrors his demeanor. He leads in a calm, yet confident way, and makes it a priority to listen to people throughout the process. He’s matter-offact, yet interjects a little humor here and there.

Job has been the building superintendent at Basin Electric Headquarters for the past 15 years, working his way up from his start as a general mechanic in 1980. Based upon the questions he asks and information he rattles off during meetings, it’s evident he knows Basin Electric’s Headquarters facilities well.

But Job admits he doesn’t know everything and says, “The key is to surround yourself with others who are as smart as or smarter than you. I’ve got plumbers,

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electricians, mechanics, heating/air conditioning technicians, housekeeping staff, cafeteria coordinators and fleet staff.

Do I know all the details? No. I rely on them for the details and their expertise, and I know how to pull it all together.”

Thanks to Job and his team, employees at Basin Electric’s 35-acre Headquarters campus, airport hangar and warehouse have a work environment that’s comfortable on the inside and aesthetically appealing on the outside. Walk the grounds in the summer, and you’ll see neatly manicured lawns, perfectly trimmed trees and shrubs, and colorful perennials, providing a vibrant welcome to employees and guests.

All of this requires a diverse team of 16 people, each bringing different talents and knowledge to the table.

Job is quick to note the pride he has for his team and their pride in what they do. “The employees are well-versed and dedicated to what they do,” he says. “They care about

the people they work with and work for because really, we provide a service. So, it’s our job to take care of employees, whether it’s a heating/air conditioning situation to keep them warm or cool, or if it’s just to keep them at their desk.”

Job oversees a lot of various facilityrelated projects across the Basin Electric campus, ranging from construction projects and food services to grounds work, office furniture purchases and arrangement, and much more. As a result, he’s Dan Job, center, gathers with some of the facilities services team. They make sure often out and about, checking in with his Basin Electric employees at Headquarters, the airport hangar and the warehouse team and on-site contractors, as well as have a work environment that is comfortable inside and wellcared for on the outside. attending meetings.

In addition to this, more of Job’s time is spent working “I like the constant change,” Job says of his position. on a potential addition to the Headquarters building. This “Nothing is really the same two days in a row.” entails working with architects during this early planning While employees are at home getting ready for their phase, and reviewing blueprints and design concepts that day, Job’s has already begun. He arrives bright and early crowd his desk and office walls. at 6:30 a.m. “I’m an early guy. I like early,” Job says.

While the bulk of Job’s responsibility is to oversee His first priority of the day is to get an overlook of the the care for the buildings and grounds, probably the heating/air conditioning system to make sure everything most rewarding part of his job is working properly. The goal is a is caring for his team by helprefreshingly air-conditioned building It’s our job to take care of ing them grow. He does this by in the summer, and one that is snuggly employees, whether it’s a heating/ air conditioning situation to keep “giving them more to bite on.” In warm in the depths of winter. them warm or cool, or if it’s just to other words, giving them jobs or A typical morning also includes keep them at their desk. duties of greater responsibility. a stop at the cafeteria to touch base Dan Job Another way Job is involved with the cafeteria coordinators about with employee growth is through their daily schedule and needs. “If you Basin Electric’s student program. need anything, give me a holler,” he Every summer, five high school- and college-aged students reminds them. join his team to care for the grounds, and assist with From there, Job makes his way to the next project site housekeeping and cafeteria work. Job feels it’s an imporon his list. On this day, it’s a remodeling and carpeting tant program because it provides the young adults with project across the street at the J&L Building. After that, different hands-on experiences and life skills they may his morning is rounded out with two meetings, both not have had before. closely tied to the biggest challenges in his job right now: “We try to give them life skills they need, at least some the growing number of employees at Headquarters and of the basics, and hope we set them up for success,” Job where to put them. says. “This year, we had them do some housekeeping duties Impacts of a growing cooperative workforce include like cleaning bathrooms and vacuuming, and cafeteria not only the need for office space, but also parking spots. duties like chopping vegetables and baking. Let’s face it.

One project Job and two of his staff are overseeing is the Some kids may not do that. But you know what? That’s current parking lot expansion, which will add 45 additional something you’ll do all your life.” parking spots.

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News Briefs

Tribune awards Basin Electric as ‘best large company to work for’

On July 12, The Bismarck Tribune recognized Basin Electric as the “Best Large Company to Work For (75 employees or more)” in the Bismarck-Mandan area. The award is part of the newspaper’s “Best of the Best” – Readers’ Choice Awards 2014 list, which recognizes the best parts of the community from the view of different categories.

Directors approve more peaking power

At its July meeting, Basin Electric board approved the expansion of two peaking stations to help serve electrical needs in the Williston Basin.

The board approved Phase III for both Lonesome Creek Station, a natural gas-based peaking station west of Watford City, ND, and Pioneer Generation Station, a natural gas-based peaking station northwest of Williston, ND. Phase III for Lonesome Creek Station will consist of the addition of two 45-megawatt (MW) combustion turbines. Like the existing unit and two units currently under construction, the planned units will utilize a dry low-emission combustion process, according to Josh Rossow, Basin Electric project manager. “Dry” indicates the process will not utilize water for nitrogen oxide emission control.

Lonesome Creek Station started commercial operation of Unit 1, rated at 45 MW, on Dec. 1, 2013, and construction of two additional 45-MW units is targeted for completion in late 2014.

Phase III for Pioneer Station will consist of 112 MW of additional capacity. The additional generation will be provided by 12 9.3-MW natural gas-based reciprocating engines. Pioneer Station’s three existing units utilize LM 6000 water-injected combustion turbines.

Pioneer Station Unit 1 started commercial operation in September 2013, the plant’s Unit 2 started commercial operation Feb. 1, 2014, and Unit 3 started commercial operation March 1, 2014. Each unit has 45 MW of generation capacity, giving the station a total rating of 135 MW. Construction on Phase III at both Lonesome Creek Station and Pioneer Station is slated to begin in late spring 2015, and completion is targeted for June 2016.

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Engineering work begins on Leland Olds Station project

A project to install selective non-catalytic reduction (SNCR) equipment at Leland Olds Station near Stanton, ND, is getting under way.

The equipment will help the power plant meet North Dakota’s NOx reduction standards. According to Jim Lund, Basin Electric senior project manager, the installation project will begin in August and plans are to begin testing in spring 2016. The Leland Olds Station must be in compliance by April 2017.

Cris Miller, Basin Electric senior environmental project specialist, said SNCR is the last NOx control technology to be installed to be fully compliant with the level of NOx control that was identified in the North Dakota Department of Health’s Regional Haze Implementation Program.

Lund said Headquarters staff is working closely with staff at Leland Olds Station on engineering efforts, which include computational fluid dynamic and combustion modeling of both Unit 1 and Unit 2’s boiler to determine the correct location for the ureabased reagent’s injection locations. The overall NOx reductions are based on the incorporation of several technology layers such as enhancements to burners, incorporation of separated over-fire air, relocation of vent return lines, incorporation of combustion, performance and soot-blowing optimization software in the boiler control systems. The engineering studies, design and installation effort began several years ago.

Les Allery, plant engineer at Leland Olds Station, said the SNCRs will be composed of several components, including a urea storage building, urea mixing equipment, piping to the injection ports to the boiler. Liquid urea will be injected into the boiler at newly installed injection ports in the area just above the fireball of the boiler. The NOx in the gas in the boiler will combine with urea and oxygen, to create nitrogen, water vapor and carbon dioxide.

Both units at Leland Olds will be fitted with this equipment. The project will cost $29 million for both units.

ND ag commissioner visits Basin’s Backyard Garden

North Dakota Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring visited Basin’s Backyard Garden on the lawn of Basin Electric Headquarters July 9.

For the fifth year, Goehring is urging gardeners and produce growers to consider donating their extra produce to local food pantries or other charitable feed i ng orga n i zat ion s through the Hunger Free ND Garden Project.

As the produce becomes Tracie Bettenhausen, staff re a d y fo r h a r v e s t i n writer/editor, shows Ag ComBasin’s Backyard Garden, missioner Doug Goehring some employees who are garden lettuce growing in Basin’s Backyard Garden. volunteers will gather the fresh fruits and vegetables to deliver to the Hunger Free ND Garden Project drop-off sites.

“I applaud all the efforts of the individuals and your company for stepping up and supporting a great project like this. It says something about Basin. It says something about the people that work here,” Goehring said.

Find us on the web basinelectric.com basinmembers.com dakotagas.com

McQuistion fills position as treasurer

During their July meetings, the Dakota Coal Company and Montana Limestone Company boards elected Mike McQuistion, director representing District 7, Rushmore Electric Cooperative, to fill the unexpired term of treasurer for those boards.

McQuistion has served on the Basin Electric board since December 2013. In his role as treasurer, he replaces Marshall Collins, former director representing District 5, Tri-State G&T Association. Dakota Coal and Montana Limestone are subsidiaries of Basin Electric.

Basin Electric honored for military support

Basin Electric received the Golden Eagle Award for its support of employees who are in the military at the Bisma rck-Ma nda n Chamber of Commerce’s annual Celebrate BismarckMike Eggl, Basin Electric senior Mandan event Aug. 7 in vice president of Communications & Administration, (right) Bismarck, ND. accepted the Golden Eagle Basin Electric, which Award from North Dakota Lt. Gov. Drew Wrigley. Photo employs 204 veterans, courtesy: Bismarck-Mandan offers benefits such as Chamber of Commerce. supplementing military pay for its employees while they are deployed, continuing benefits during deployment, providing cell phones and laptops to deployed employees and granting extra leave after an employee returns from deployment.

In 2012, Basin Electric was selected from more than 2,500 nominations to receive the Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award, which is the U.S. government’s highest recognition given to employers for exceptional support of their employees serving in the Guard and Reserve.

Basin Electric was also a finalist for the Freedom Award in 2010 and 2011.

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September - October 2014

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Employee Highlights

Happy trails: Co-op family’s St. Jude ride draws support

Participants of the Saddle Up for St. Jude horse trail ride venture through Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park July 27. The annual event, organized by Priscilla Sauer and her husband, Jason, benefits St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

The couple says helping others is worth the cost.

Each year, the last Sunday in July is one of the busiest “I have never had any health issues with my kids,” days of the whole year for Priscilla Sauer. It’s the day of Sauer says. “But if I ever did, I would hope that someone the Saddle Up for St. Jude horse trail ride. This year, there would help me out. This is just a way to give back to were 125 participants and 80 horses. the community.”

“It’s all about the kids,” says Sauer, who has spent During the event, in addition to riding horses, particcountless hours organizing the event for the last four years. ipants gave donations, attended a Money raised during the ride I have never had any prayer service and enjoyed a meal. benefits St. Jude Children’s Research health issues with my kids, When she’s not managing Saddle Hospital. Basin Electric and other but if I ever did, I would hope Up for St. Jude, Sauer serves the groups from around the Bismarckthat someone would help me community in many other ways.

Ma nda n (ND) a rea donated to out.

This is just a way to give Sunday school, youth mentoring, the cause. back to the community. hunter’s safety, search and rescue, air This year’s ride took place at Fort Priscilla Sauer patrol and 4-H fill her volunteer resume.

Abraham Lincoln State Park, south She says her love of service to of Mandan. others stems from her mother, who When managing the yearly ride, suffered from a stroke last year, as well as spina bifida Sauer is assisted by her husband, Dakota Gas Operations her whole life.

Technician Jason Sauer, as well as their four kids, grand“She has proven to us kids that we can do anything daughter, and a host of other volunteers. we want,” Sauer says.

It’s a family effort that supports a heartwarming cause.

Her late father-in-law, who loved children, was also a Sauer says she is overwhelmed with the community major inspiration for the event. generosity she’s seen since taking over coordination of Nearly $25,000 has been raised through the annual the trail ride. trail ride, and Sauer is overwhelmed from the support her “It’s just amazing,” she says. “I’m just so grateful.” family has seen. It means better lives for children, which When the Sauers first took on the trail ride, they had is everything to her. almost no financial support. Money that secured horses, food, water and other necessities came out of their own pocket.

“It’s been fabulous,” she says.

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Adams awarded for service to AABI

Fred Adams, chief pilot, received the Richard W. Taylor Industry Award for his service to Aviation Accreditation Board International (AABI) at the annual meeting in Nashville, TN, July 17. AABI is a postsecondary accreditation organization focused on advancing quality aviation education worldwide.

Adams joined the organization in 2007 as an industry representative and currently serves on the Board of Trustees. The award, which honors industry members who have been highly instrumental in the advancement of AABI, came as a surprise to Adams. “I had no idea the award was coming, but it’s something I’ve always strived for,” Adams says. He is currently the only industry member serving as chair of a visiting team. “The other members are all professors at universities, so being from industry has enabled me to offer a different perspective,” Adams says.

Adams plans to retire in January 2015 and will continue to serve on the board of trustees for AABI. “I hope to continue to help universities understand what is needed of new pilots, air traffic controllers, airport managers, maintenance technicians, and safety staff so that not only the graduates that Basin Electric brings on, but all involved with aviation will be safer and more productive.”

Blowers to serve on IABC Pacific Plains Region board

Andrea Blowers, senior staff writer-editor, has been named as a chapter advocate to the board of directors of the Pacific Plains Region of the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC). The organization supports the leaders and members of the region’s IABC chapters with resources and professional development opportunities to foster a collegial network of professionals engaged in all aspects of corporate communication. The 11-member board supports the leadership of 18 IABC chapters in 18 states. Blowers will serve a two-year term, which began July 1.

Blowers completed two bachelor degrees, one in communications and the other in art, from Minnesota State University Moorhead.

She previously served as IABC Great Plains past president and board member.

Employees featured in Bismarck Tribune’s Forty Under Forty

Two Basin Electric employees were featured July 20 in The Bismarck Tribune’s annual feature “40 Under 40.”

Erica Petrowitz, Dakota Gasification Company human resources supervisor, was recognized for her dedication to her job in overseeing human resources and recruiting activities for over 700 employees in the fast-paced energy industry.

Kimberly Miller, Basin Electric senior business analyst, was recognized for her commitment to excellence and leadership in her full-time job and years of service to the North Dakota National Guard.

The “40 Under 40” spotlights honorees who are involved in and working hard for the good of their communities. A total of 77 individuals were nominated this year.

Employees receive degrees

Benjamin Althoff, electrical engineer at the Great Plains Synfuels Plant, bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, North Dakota State University, December 2013.

Kristie Ching, administrative assistant III at Deer Creek Station, master’s degree in human development, South Dakota State University, May 2014.

Mark Christiansen, electrical engineer at the Synfuels Plant, bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, North Dakota State University, May 2014.

Donavon Dick, service dispatcher at Headquarters, associate of applied science degree in criminal justice, Bismarck (ND) State College, May 2014.

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Employee Highlights

Employees receive degrees

Samantha Erickson, human resources coordinator at Headquarters, bachelor’s degree in business administration and human resources management, Dickinson (ND) State University, May 2014.

Paul Kaiser, assistant transmission line superintendent at Transmission System Maintenance - Mandan, ND, bachelor’s degree in energy management, Bismarck (ND) State College, May 2014.

Braden Fagenbush, temporary warehouse assistant at Laramie River Station, associate of applied science degree in power plant technology, Casper (WY) College, May 2014.

Austyn Kittelson, process operations field technician at the Synfuels Plant, associate of applied science degree in process plant technology and associate of science degree in business administration, Bismarck (ND) State College, May 2014.

David Fischer, field technician at the Great Plains Synfuels Plant, associate of applied science in mechanical maintenance, Bismarck (ND) State College, May 2013.

Ryan Fisk, protection services specialist III at the Synfuels Plant, associate of applied science degree in management, Bismarck (ND) State College, December 2013.

Glenn Hofer, mechanic helper at Deer Creek Station, associate of applied science in robotics, Lake Area Technical Institute (SD), May 2014.

Spencer Garland, mechanical engineer I at Laramie River Station, associate of applied science degree in power plant technology, Bismarck (ND) State College, August 2014.

Erin Huntimer, project coordinations representative at Headquarters, master’s degree in business administration with a concentration in energy management, University of Mary, August 2014.

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Melissa Kramer, business systems technician at Headquarters, bachelor’s degree in computer information systems and mathematics and an associate of science degree in business administration, University of Mary, May 2014.

Brett Leier, field technician at the Synfuels Plant, associate of applied science degree in instrumentation & control technology, Bismarck (ND) State College, May 2014.

Pat McMackin, engineering and instrumentation technician at Dry Fork Station, bachelor’s degree in electronics engineering, DeVry University, March 2014.

Josh Raynes, performance engineer I at Headquarters, bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering, University of North Dakota, December 2013.

Ty Rossman, hardware maintenance assistant at Headquarters, associate of applied science in computer support specialist, Bismarck (ND) State College, May 2014.

New Employees

Rick Baker began working at the Synfuels Plant June 16 as a maintenance field technician. The Bismarck, ND, native was previously employed at River City Sports.

Garrett Schilling, power supply engineer I at Headquarters, bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, University of Wyoming, May 2014.

Shawn Christensen started his position as a laborer June 16 at Leland Olds Station. The Bismarck, ND, native previously worked for South Central Regional Water District. He has an associate degree in process plant technology at Bismarck (ND) State College.

Joey Schrepel, power supply engineer I at Headquarters, bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, South Dakota State University, May 2014.

Adam Bornemann began working at Antelope Valley Station June 16 as a mechanical engineer II. Originally from Beulah, ND, Bornemann previously worked in Hawaii for the United States Navy. He also served in the Army from 2001 to 2005.

Christopher Schwarz, reliability engineer at the Synfuels Plant, bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, North Dakota State University, May 2014.

Nick Sundahl, electrical engineer I at Headquarters, bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, University of North Dakota, May 2014.

Austin Int Veldt, operator at the Synfuels Plant, associate of applied science degree in process plant technology, Bismarck (ND) State College, May 2014.

Cole Brunmeier began working at the Synfuels Plant June 16 as a maintenance field technician. The Hazen, ND, native has an associate degree in mechanical maintenance from Bismarck (ND) State College.

Brunmeier previously worked at Antelope Valley Station.

Ronald French, assistant construction inspector, began working at Deer Creek Station June 16. He previously worked for Stanley Consultants as a construction observer in Denver, CO. Missy Schell, rate and revenue analyst, started work at Headquarters June 16.

Originally from Jamestown, ND, Schell previously worked for Unisys Corporation as an operations analyst in Bismarck.

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Employee Highlights

New Employees

Benjamin Buchholz began working at the Synfuels Plant May 27 as a process operations field technician. The Bismarck, ND, native has an associate degree in power plant technology from Bismarck (ND) State College.

Nicole Coleman began working at the Synfuels Plant June 16 as a chemistry laboratory field technician. The Minot, ND, native has a bachelor’s degree in chemistry and mathematics from Minot (ND) State University.

Thomas Carter began working at the Synfuels Plant June 2 as a senior project engineer. Originally from Las Vegas, NV, Carter has a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and a master’s degree in business administration from Clemson (SC) University.

He previously worked at Power Projects.

DeAnn Eslinger began working at the Synfuels Plant July 14 as an administrative assistant. Originally from Golden Valley, ND, Eslinger was previously employed at Otter Tail Power Company.

Cole Kothman started his position as a construction coordinator I at Lonesome Creek Station June 16. The Princeton, MN, native previously worked for KBR as a quantity surveyor in Houston, TX. Calli Scheller began working at Headquarters June 16 as an account analyst I. Scheller is originally from Stanley, ND, and prior to returning to North Dakota was living in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. She previously worked for the North Dakota Department of Transportation in Bismarck, ND. Mark Christiansen began working at the Synfuels Plant May 21 as an electrical engineer. Originally from Bemidji, MN, Christiansen has a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from North Dakota State University. He previously was employed at Bobcat.

Steve Ray, construction coordinator II, started work at Headquarters June 23.

Originally from North Carolina, Ray previously worked for SNC-Lavalin Canada as a construction manager in Calgary, Alberta.

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Jackie Stromme started her position as an employment recruiter at Headquarters June 30. The Bismarck, ND, native previously worked for St. Alexius Medical Center as a human resources generalist in Bismarck.

Jeremy Twete began working at Headquarters June 30 as an enterprise systems administrator I. Originally from Devils Lake, ND, Twete previously worked for North Dakota Telephone Company in Devils Lake.

Ty Hagel began working at the Synfuels Plant May 19 as a maintenance field technician. The Mandan, ND, native has an associate degree in mechanical maintenance from Bismarck State College. Hagel was previously employed at Tinuss Systems.

Josh Raynes, performance engineer I, started work at Headquarters June 30.

Originally from St. Paul, MN, Raynes previously worked for Rhombus Guys Pizza in Grand Forks, ND. Peter Moch started his position as a civil engineer II at Headquarters June 23. The Mandan, ND, native previously worked for Apex Engineering Group in Bismarck, ND.

Ryan Korb began working at the Synfuels Plant May 27 as a process operations field technician. Originally from Brooklyn Park, MN, Korb has an associate degree in process plant technology from Bismarck (ND) State College.

Ryan Kroese began working at the Synfuels Plant June 16 as a process operations field technician. The Grand Forks, ND, native was previously employed at Red Lobster.

Janet Heier began working at Headquarters June 30 as an administrative assistant II. Originally from Hague, ND, Heier previously worked for the North Dakota State Penitentiary in Bismarck. She also worked for the United States Air Force from 1994 to 2002.

Paige Fleck started her position as an administrative assistant II at Antelope Valley Station June 30. Originally from Bismarck, ND, Fleck previously worked for Dakota Westmoreland Corporation in Beulah, ND, as an administrative assistant. She has an associate degree in administrative assistant general/ medical from Bismarck (ND) State College.

Dustin Erhardt started his position as a cyber-security specialist III at Headquarters June 30. Originally from Flasher, ND, Erhardt previously worked for MDU Resources Group in Bismarck, ND, as a senior information security administrator. He was also employed at Basin Electric as a security analyst from 2005 to 2013.

Mitch Leidholm began working at the Synfuels Plant July 14 as an electrical and instrumentation field technician. Originally from Hazen, ND, Leidholm has an associate degree in HVAC/R from North Dakota State College of Science in Wahpeton.

Brett Leier began working at the Synfuels Plant May 27 as an electrical and instrumentation field technician. The Hazen, ND, native has an associate degree in instrumentation and control technology from Bismarck (ND) State College.

Tom Kordonowy began working at the Synfuels Plant June 30 as a process operations field technician. The Beulah, ND, native has an associate degree in instrumentation and control from Bismarck (ND) State College. Kordonowy previously worked at Cargill.

Kyle Sailer began working at Antelope Valley Station June 30 as a laborer. The Stanton, ND, native previously worked for Black Thunder Coal Company in Wright, WY.

Thomas Heskin, laborer, started work at Antelope Valley Station June 30. Originally from Glen Ullin, ND, Heskin previously worked for Northern Improvement Company.

Rebecca Lipp began working at the Synfuels Plant May 27 as a senior process safety engineer. The Mandan, ND, native has a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from the University of Washington in Seattle.

Lipp was previously employed at Crane Aerospace and Electronics.

Lindsey Schutt began working at Antelope Valley Station June 30 as an administrative assistant II. The Hazen, ND, native previously worked for Union State Bank in Hazen. Schutt has a bachelor’s degree in business administration.

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Employee Highlights

New Employees

Greg Owen, electrical engineer II, started work at Headquarters July 14. Originally from Valley City, ND, Owen previously worked for Sebesta in St. Paul, MN. He has a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in electrical engineering from North Dakota State University, Fargo.

Ronald Reinke started his position as a laborer July 14 at Laramie River Station. He previously worked for Wyoming Department of Transportation in Wheatland.

McKinzi Mattern began working at the Synfuels Plant June 16 as a process operations field technician. Mattern is originally from Bismarck, ND, and has an associate degree in process plant technology from Bismarck (ND) State College.

Anjani Adusumilli started his position as a senior enterprise applications architect at Headquarters July 7. Originally from Hyderabad, India, Adusumilli previously worked for Job Service North Dakota in Bismarck.

He has a master’s degree in computer science from the University of Kentucky, Lexington, and a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Mary in Bismarck. He is also certified as a project management professional.

Robert Messmer began working at the Synfuels Plant June 16 as a maintenance field technician. Messmer is originally from Bismarck, ND.

Matt Young began working as a laborer at Laramie River Station July 14. Originally from San Diego, CA, Young previously worked for TC Edwards in Wheatland, WY.

Keith Ketcherside began working as a senior project manager at Headquarters July 7. Originally from Union, MO, Ketcherside previously worked for Westar Energy in Topeka, KS. He has also worked for Empire District Electric Co. and for Westinghouse Electric Company. He has a mechanical engineering degree from the University of Missouri, Rolla.

Randy Meier began working at the Synfuels Plant June 16 as a maintenance field technician. The Bismarck, ND, native was previously employed at Bobcat.

Blake Miller began working at the Synfuels Plant June 30 as a maintenance field technician. The Dickinson, ND, native was previously employed at South Dakota Wheat Growers.

Kristen Wagner, engineering document coordinator I, started work at Headquarters July 14. The Mandan, ND, native previously worked for Dakota Boys & Girls Ranch in Bismarck, ND.

Greg DeSaye, multimedia specialist II, started work at Headquarters July 7. The Minot, ND, native previously worked for KFYR-TV in Bismarck. He also worked at Logan Productions in Milwaukee, WI. Nichole Ohlhauser started her position as a payroll analyst, July 14 at Dakota Gasification Company. Originally from Linton, ND, Ohlhauser previously worked for S & S Accounting in Bismarck, ND. She has a bachelor’s degree in accounting/business administration.

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Jake Miller began working at the Synfuels Plant July 7 as a process engineer. The Steele, ND, native has a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks.

Austin Myers began working at the Synfuels Plant June 2 as a process operations field technician. The Bismarck, ND, native was previously employed at Vistec.

Cory Gillaspie began working as a laborer at Laramie River Station July 14. The Wheatland, WY, native previously worked for Stallion Oilfield Services in Wheatland as a superintendent of housing.

Mike Zimmerman began working as a laborer at Laramie River Station July 14.

Originally from Wheatland, WY, Zimmerman previously worked for Peabody Energy: North Antelope Rochelle Mine in Gillette, WY.

Ross Walker, laborer, started work at Laramie River Station July 14. Originally from Hartville, WY, Walker previously worked for Consolidated Manufacturing Enterprises in Wheatland, WY. He has an associate degree in welding and joining technology from Eastern Wyoming College, Torrington.

Chad Bunch, laborer, started work at Laramie River Station July 14. Originally from Glenrock, WY, Bunch previously worked for the United States Air Force in McChord Air Force Base, WA.

Cody Morrell began working at the Synfuels Plant May 19 as a process operations field technician. The Mandan, ND, native has an associate degree in process plant technology from Bismarck (ND) State College.

William Crowley started his position as a laborer at Laramie River Station July 14. He previously worked for Wyoming Department of Transportation in Chugwater.

Justin Parisien began working at the Synfuels Plant June 30 as a maintenance field technician. The Hazen, ND, native has an associate degree in power plant and process plant technology from Bismarck (ND) State College. Parisien was previously employed at British Petroleum Pipeline and Logistics.

Jason Nijim began working at the Synfuels Plant May 27 as a senior project engineer.

Originally from Chicago, IL, Nijim has a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from Purdue (IN) University.

Milo Schramm began working at the Synfuels Plant June 30 as a maintenance field technician. The Hazen, ND, native previously worked for the Department of Transportation.

Chris Schwarz began working at the Synfuels Plant June 30 as a reliability engineer. The Hazen, ND, native has a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from North Dakota State University, Fargo.

Tonjia Brown started her position as an administrative assistant I at Laramie River Station April 21.

Brian Sitz began working as an enterprise application architect II at Headquarters June 30. The Hazen, ND, native previously worked for Job Service North Dakota in Bismarck. He has a bachelor’s degree in computer science from Dickinson (ND) State University.

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Employee Highlights

New Employees

Keith Koenigshof, network security analyst, started work at Dakota Gasification Company June 30. Originally from Montana, he previously worked for Charter Communications in Billings, MT, as a network operations center analyst. He has an associate degree in computer desktop/network support.

Kent Van Hoorn began working at the Synfuels Plant June 30 as a maintenance field technician. Van Hoorn is originally from Washburn, ND.

Tom Leingang started his position as a business analyst at Headquarters in May. The Mandan, ND, native previously worked for the North Dakota Army National Guard in Bismarck. He has been a member of the North Dakota Army National Guard since 1998 and is currently serving as an engineer officer with the 141 MEB out of Fargo.

Tammy Langerud began working as a staff writer/editor at Headquarters June 19. The Bismarck, ND, native previously worked for Odney in Bismarck. Langerud has a master’s degree from the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, and a bachelor’s degree in marketing and mass communication from Minnesota State University Moorhead.

Zachary Seibel began working at the Synfuels Plant June 16 as an electrical and instrumentation field technician. Seibel is originally from Beulah, ND.

Erik Collar, laborer, started work at Laramie River Station July 14. Originally from Guernsey, WY, Collar previously worked for Peabody Energy in Wright, WY.

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Basin Today

Brandon Aastrom started his position as a laborer at Laramie River Station July 14.

The Wheatland, WY, native previously worked for Norb Olind Construction in Wheatland.

Daniel Weisz began working at the Synfuels Plant May 27 as a chemistry laboratory field technician. The Bismarck, ND, native has a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from North Dakota State University, Fargo.

Colleen Peterson, compliance program specialist, started work at Headquarters July 28. The Bismarck, ND, native previously worked for the City of Bismarck. She has a bachelor’s degree in environmental science from Bemidji (MN) State University and a master’s degree from the University of Mary, Bismarck.

Nathan Stroh began working at the Synfuels Plant June 16 as an environmental specialist.

The Bismarck, ND, native has a bachelor’s degree in zoology from North Dakota State University, Fargo. Stroh previously was employed at the U.S. Geological Survey.

Kimberly Sawhill started her position as a service dispatcher at Headquarters July 28.

Originally from Chamberlain, SD, Sawhill has associate degree from Sinte Gleska University in Mission, SD. Brad Hone started his position as a cafeteria technician at Headquarters July 28. Originally from Bismarck, ND, Hone previously worked for Amvets Post 9 in Bismarck.

Brock Treybig began working at the Synfuels Plant June 16 as an inspection field technician. Originally from Tom Bean, TX, Treybig previously was employed at Mistras.

Anine Lambert began working at Headquarters Aug. 4 as an attorney. The Hillsboro, ND, native received her Juris Doctorate in May from the University Of North Dakota School Of Law in Grand Forks.

Patrick Donovan, operations maintenance supervisor, started work at Pioneer Station July 28. Originally from Center, ND, Donovan previously worked for Ottertail Power in Jamestown, ND.

Sara Clark, help desk coordinator, started work at Headquarters Aug. 11. Originally from Pierre, SD, Clark previously worked for American Insurance in Bismarck, ND.

Lee Weltikol began working at the Synfuels Plant June 30 as a maintenance field technician. Weltikol is originally from Max, ND and has an associate degree in diesel technology from North Dakota State College of Science, Wahpeton.

Moe Alwachi began working as a helpdesk coordinator assistant at Headquarters Aug. 8.

He is originally from Iraq.

Morgan Galloway began working as a lineman-journeyman at Transmission System Maintenance-Gillette, WY, May 4.

He previously worked for PacifiCorp and has an associate of applied science degree from Northeast Community College, Norfolk, NE. Karla Merkel started her position as a human resources operations manager at Headquarters June 2. Originally from the Bismarck/ Mandan, ND, area, Merkel previously worked for MDU Construction Services Group. She has a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Mary, Bismarck.

Trevor Sipma started his position as a structural engineer I at Headquarters Aug. 11. The Bismarck, ND, native previously worked for KLJ in Bismarck.

Michael Wanzek, electrical engineer, started work at Headquarters Aug 11. Originally from Hutchinson, MN, Wanzek previously worked for Prairie View Landscaping in Baldwin, ND. Prior to that he worked at Great River Energy.

Rhett Whiddon began working at the Synfuels Plant June 16 as a process operations field technician. Whiddon previously was employed at Tharaldson Ethanol.

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Employee Highlights

Service Awards

Bruce Benz

Peggy Moran

Mary Polzin

James Zacher

Leslie Bornemann

Byron Berger

maintenance planner/scheduler

inventory analyst

senior administrative assistant

instrument lead

mechanic

shift supervisor – utilities

40 years

35 years

Headquarters

Leland Olds Station

30 years

30 years

Antelope Valley Station

30 years

Antelope Valley Station

Headquarters

30 years

Dakota Gasification Company

Randy Binstock

Troy Borud

Donald Doll

Vern Grueneich

Kurt Kordonowy

Craig Mattheis

field technician

section manager – utilities

operations coordinator

field technician

field technician

field technician

30 years

Dakota Gasification Company

30 years

30 years

30 years

30 years

30 years

Dakota Gasification Company

Dakota Gasification Company

Dakota Gasification Company

Dakota Gasification Company

Dakota Gasification Company

Tim McEvers

Arnold Charging

John Helm

David Knudson

Joseph Schutt

Greg Dahmus

shift supervisor – utilities

field technician

field technician

area planner

field technician

senior network security analyst

30 years

30 years

Dakota Gasification Company

30 years

Dakota Gasification Company

Dakota Gasification Company

20 years

electrician Laramie River Station

Dale Niezwaag

A. T. Funkhouser

Daniel Milewski

senior legislative representative

manager of health, safety and environmental

reliability specialist

Headquarters

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Basin Today

Dakota Gasification Company

30 years

Dakota Gasification Company

25 years

Headquarters

Richard Sass

25 years

30 years

20 years

Dakota Gasification Company

25 years

Dakota Gasification Company

Retirees Editor’s note: Expanded retirement stories were written only for those who returned their questionnaire to Basin Today staff.

Kevin Monson, desktop applications analyst, retired from Laramie River Station July 8 after nearly 30 years of service. Monson began working in 1984 as a computer operator I. His title was changed to senior computer operator and then data communications technician at Headquarters, until he was transferred to Wheatland, WY. After a few temporary assignments were complete, he transferred permanently to Laramie River Station in 2000.

Kenneth Fredericks retired from the Synfuels Plant July 3 after 18 years of service. He began working as a maintenance field technician in 1996. Fredericks said he will miss all the friends he’s made over the years at Dakota Gas. He and his wife, Pamela, have 11 children and seven grandchildren. In retirement, Fredericks plans to continue to farm and ranch.

Randy Heitz retired from the Synfuels Plant after 30 years of service. He began working as a process operations field technician and worked his way up to operations supervisor and public awareness coordinator for the pipelines. He has four children and nine grandchildren. In retirement, Heitz plans to move to Colorado and work for Whiting Oil. Tim Kaffar retired from the Synfuels Plant after 29 years of service. During his years working at the plant he held multiple positions in human resources, environmental and process operations superintendent. He and his wife, Barb, have three children and two grandchildren. In retirement, Kaffar plans to winter in Arizona and participate in trap shooting competitions.

Edward Parisien retired from the Synfuels Plant July 7 after 31 years of service. He began working as a maintenance field technician in 1983 and worked his way to maintenance supervisor. In retirement, Parisien plans to travel, fish and golf.

Sam Keller, contract administrator, retired from Headquarters July 23 after 40 years of service.

Keller began working as a yardman at the William J. Neal Station in 1974. He was also plant clerk and office supervisor, until he transferred to Leland Olds Station as a mine equipment analyst in 1985. Later, he transferred to Glenharold Mine under the same position. He transferred once more to Headquarters and served as a buyer, purchasing agent and a contract administrator, the position he held until retirement.

Jon Klein, contract supervisor, says Keller knew his work and was a great resource for the cooperative. “Sam always worked with a calm, collected demeanor, never letting the stress of the job influence his attitude. I will miss all of his stories and the opportunity for our team to learn from his experience on a daily basis,” Klein says.

Sheila Psyrropoulos retired August 4 after nine years of service. The Golden Valley, ND, native worked as a cafeteria attendant during her career at the Synfuels Plant.

Donald Retterath, lead mechanic, retired from Leland Olds Station June 6 after 24 years of service. He began working at the plant in 1990 as a welder/mechanic. His also served as a mechanic and then finally lead mechanic.

Retterath recalls the evening of Y2K at Leland Olds Station when he reported for work and was sent to the top of Unit II Boiler in case the unit tripped. “If it tripped, we were told we should cover the louvers on top with the tarps that are already up there. We waited for the clock to strike midnight and sat watching someone shoot off fireworks to the southeast.

Then we realized it was after midnight and Y2K was already here and nothing happened. We went down to the control room to make sure everything checked out okay, and it did. After that we all relaxed and enjoyed a steak dinner,” Retterath says.

“I’ve made a lot of good friends at Leland Olds Station that hold a special place in my heart and I will never forget them, even the ones that have passed.”

In retirement, Retterath is looking forward to camping, boating and traveling. He also plans to restore his 1955 Chevy two-door hardtop.

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