Bright Spots Illuminate Long Career

When everyone is seeking shelter from storms, lineworkers are repairing the damage.

“I was always leaving home when the weather was bad,” said Darin Swensrud, operations superintendent.

Once, as he headed out the door, Swensrud noticed his young son was upset.

“I told him, ‘There’s a family out there just like us without power and I’m going to get their power on.’ He said, ‘Dad, go get their power on,’” he shares.

Retiring after 31 years with Mountrail-Williams Electric Cooperative (MWEC) means Swensrud can spend more time on his land northwest of Williston, working with his horses and on projects like restoring a 1978 Ford pickup.

“I plan to hunt and fish during the week when everyone is at work, and work on my projects on the weekend when everyone is hunting,” he joked.

Swensrud’s career began in 1988 after graduating from the Bismarck State College lineworker program.

His first job took him to New Hampshire and Maine for about five years. While it was a good experience, he was soon itching to get back to North Dakota.

“I couldn’t wait to leave, and then I couldn’t wait to get back,” he said.

Originally from Watford City, Swensrud joined an MWEC line crew in 1993 and his career rose to lead lineworker, construction coordinator and his current position.

He described the oil boom years as challenging.

“It was tough to keep your head above water. But every day, it got a lot better,” he said.

The close-knit group at MWEC made the work easier.

“I have always appreciated the chance to work here. MWEC treats their employees very well,” Swensrud said.

There were always bright spots, even out in a storm, he said.

“When you see a family and the smiles on their faces when their power comes on,” he said.

To read this and other stories in the North Dakota Living magazine CLICK HERE.