Employees are Dairyland’s greatest asset and, as part of our People First initiative, we want to recognize the people behind the power. Employees help make Dairyland a Great Place to Work and a sustainable and reliable power provider. The employee spotlight series features an employee each month, shining a light on their interests and what it’s like to be a part of the Dairyland team.
Employee Spotlight On
Dennis Arendt
Foreperson, Renewable & Combustion Turbine Technician
Ladysmith, Wis.
What is your job and what do you like most about it?
My formal title is Foreperson, Renewable & Combustion Turbine Technician. I’ve been with Dairyland just over 18 years: The first six at Alma Station Units 1-5 and the John P. Madgett (JPM) Station, and the last 12 years here at the Flambeau Hydroelectric Station. What I like best is the variety of work and independence. We've been told all along, ‘This is your station. Treat it as your own and take it in a direction to make it and the community better.’
What led you to work in this field?
My dad and both grandfathers split time between trades in the paper mills and family farms. When I started in the mill on my 20th birthday, I realized a day off once in a while was pretty nice and the trades paid way better than farming.
Why do you think Dairyland is a great place to work?
The stability. Even though we've closed power plants, employees who wanted to stay still had jobs.
What about life outside work? Tell us about your favorite things.
Up north, there is a hobby for every season: Hunting, fishing, snowmobiling and working in the woods, but my favorite is riding my Harley – especially on cross-country trips out west.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given or a favorite quote?
My grandmother was born in 1910 and lived through both World Wars and the Great Depression. She was pulled out of school after eighth grade to help with the family. She always said, ‘Learn as much as you can every day, embrace change and something new because it is something that will make you better and no one can take that away from you.’
What was the best thing that happened to you this month?
Getting to spend time with our 8-month-old granddaughter.
What motivates you?
Keep going forward to make yourself and your community better. If you're standing still, you are going backward.
What's on your bucket list?
I have a few Harley rides to take: One more trip and I will have 49 states and the lower provinces of Canada. We rented a motorcycle in Hawaii and different places in the Caribbean. Then, the Four Corners Tour: Maine to Key West, Fla., to lower California to Washington State and back home.
Where's your favorite local spot?
The Flambeau Lodge. It’s an old spot down a gravel road where the locals gather.
Dream vacation?
Spending a couple of months in New Zealand to ride a motorcycle from top to bottom, do some Red Stag hunting, and explore the island.
Do you volunteer anywhere?
I am president of our local snowmobile club, treasurer of a local archery club, and I volunteer for the Rusk County WRA and Rusk County Fair.
What do you want to be celebrating in five years?
My five-year retirement anniversary!