Employees are our greatest asset and as part of our People First initiative, we want to recognize the people behind the power. Our employees are a major factor in Dairyland being a Great Place to Work and a sustainable and reliable power provider. The employee spotlight series features an employee each month, shining a spotlight on their interests and what it’s like to be a part of the Dairyland team.
Employee Spotlight On
Clay DeWitt
Manager, Regional Transmission Projects
What is your job and what do you like most about it?
What I value most about my role is the team I get to work with every day. I’m fortunate to be part of our Regional Transmission Projects and a group that brings a lot of dedication, experience and problem-solving to the work. The projects can be demanding, but the team continues to step up, work together and move important efforts forward. We are helping create new opportunities for Dairyland and shape the future of our transmission system, and I’m grateful to be part of that work.
What led you to work in this field?
My dad worked as a journeyman at ITC/ULC, which first introduced me to the industry. He got in late, starting his apprenticeship at the age of 49. Through his connections and my own network, I became familiar with ITC and explored opportunities there; however, there were no engineering or project management positions available at the time. I was subsequently referred to a contractor, where I accepted a project management role supporting multiple utilities. I managed the construction of transmission lines, substations and distribution line projects.
Why do you think Dairyland is a great place to work?
Dairyland is full of opportunities to learn and take on new challenges. For me and our team, that has meant gaining hands-on experience in extra-high-voltage transmission development and continuing to build our knowledge through the work we do every day.
What about life outside work? Tell us about your favorite things.
I enjoy spending time outdoors, traveling and being active with my family. While motorcycles and cross-country rides were once a major hobby of mine, these days I spend more time working on our acreage, supporting my kids’ interests and playing sports with them. We recently purchased a boat and look forward to making family memories on the water. I could always use more time for hunting, fishing, golfing and travel though.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given? Favorite quote?
My favorite quote is "Comparison is the thief of joy." - Theodore Roosevelt.
This ties into the advice that the only person you should compare yourself to is who you were yesterday.
What motivates you?
I am most motivated by large-scale projects and impactful decisions. I enjoy working in high-pressure situations and taking on challenges that stretch my capabilities.
What food could you not live without?
A ribeye steak cooked medium-rare!
Favorite movie?
Pulp Fiction