Cole Schneider is a Project Engineering Technician. He has worked for KEC for more than four years.

What made you interested in working for KEC?

I had always heard that KEC was a great place to work, and I was young and looking for a good career. 

Before KEC, I worked for a roofing company as a project manager and estimator. In that role I learned how to manage multiple projects and read construction plans. It turns out that experience, along with the customer service and communication skills I gained, were a perfect fit for a Project Engineering Technician position at KEC. 

What does a day look like for you as a Project Engineering Technician?

In my role I handle the majority of the new construction projects for commercial developers and subdivisions. As you probably know, commercial growth has really taken off in the last few years and that means more electric service installations in KEC’s service territory. I’m responsible for designing the electric infrastructure for these new businesses. I usually start my day by conducting site visits and coordination meetings with general contractors and other utilities, such as natural gas and internet. I also work closely with KEC’s operations department to ensure our crews can meet tight deadlines to install electric service.

Tell us about the commercial growth in KEC’s service area. 

KEC has experienced record growth in our service territory in both residential and commercial services. In fact, last year alone we energized 122 new commercial accounts on our system and have energized 120 new commercial accounts so far this year. Historically, KEC has not seen this level of commercial growth. Some of the notable commercial projects I’ve been involved with recently include: 

• The industrial area near Beck Road and Interstate 90 in Post Falls including UPS, Central Transport, Napa Auto Parts, Gesa Credit Union, Circle K and Nutex Health. 
• The Crossings commercial center in Athol including Super 1 Foods, Tractor Supply, Grease Monkey, Auto Zone, Northwest Specialty Hospital Urgent Care and Dollar Tree. 

What is your role in helping new commercial projects get electric service installed? 

When a commercial developer is interested in doing a project in our area, they start by applying for service with our member service and experience department. Then I meet with the project manager at the construction site to review logistics and plans. In many cases the architect prepares the electrical plans and I review them to ensure that they are compatible with KEC’s electric distribution system, including the location of our existing and future equipment. We also discuss how much power the commercial project will use so the equipment installed is adequately sized. I then serve as a liaison between the general contractors, electricians and KEC crews as construction progresses from groundbreaking through turning on the lights.
 
What is the biggest challenge in your job?

Electric equipment availability and cost continue to be a huge challenge. We have been able to keep up with the demand but continue to look for new and innovative ways to procure the materials needed to provide electric service to those who need it. 

What is the best part of your job?

The best part is when a large commercial project or subdivision is completed. These projects take a massive amount of coordination but it’s very rewarding to see the finished product. I also enjoy cultivating relationships with area developers, contractors and electricians.