Steve Breidenbach Retires

Steve Breidenbach retired in June after 44 years of serving the members with his contagious energy and enthusiasm. If you have stopped by the co-op during the last four decades, you’ve likely heard Steve’s infectious laugh. 

Steve has fulfilled many roles since he first was hired in 1979 as a Member Services Representative. He was promoted to Engineering Representative in 1982, followed by promotions to Planning Engineer (1990), Systems Engineer (1995), and finally Engineering Manager (2010). As Engineering Manager, Steve is responsible for the Engineering and Dispatch departments, along with the design and updating of all of Nodak’s distribution lines. Throughout the years, Steve’s job duties changed, but his eagerness to help members and co-workers never changed. 

Steve and his wife, Cindy, who also just retired, plan to spend their summer at the lake with family and friends, followed by winter fun of cheering on his favorite UND hockey team. The Breidenbachs have two children, and four grandchildren they plan to spoil. 

“Thank you, Steve, for always supporting the co-op and your many years of dedicated leadership. Your laughter and positive attitude will truly be missed. Enjoy the fruits of all your years of great work. Here’s to wishing you a relaxing and wonderful retirement,” said Nodak CEO Mylo Einarson.

Cole Johnson Promoted

Cole Johnson was recently named as the new Engineering Manager at Nodak Electric, succeeding Steve Breidenbach, who retired after an impressive 44 years of service. In this new role, Cole will provide direction and leadership for the Engineering, Metering and Dispatch departments, as well as leading the design and modernization efforts for Nodak’s distribution grid. 

Originally from East Grand Forks, Minn., Cole received an electrical engineering degree from the University of North Dakota and a master’s in Business Administration from the University of Mary. Cole joined Nodak in 2011 as an intern and was hired full time as an electrical engineer in 2012. 

Cole and his wife Janafer recently welcomed a newborn daughter into their family. They currently reside in rural Grand Forks, N.D.

Bryce Langerud Hired

Nodak Electric Cooperative welcomes Bryce Langerud, a Harwood, N.D., native, to the Nodak team as a receptionist. Her duties include handling inbound phone traffic, processing cash receipts and service orders. Bryce attended Northland Community and Technical College for business management. Her previous work experience includes time as an optometric technician at Opticare, East Grand Forks, Minn. She enjoys reading, going to the races, hanging out with family, friends, and her two cats. 

Seasonal apprentices

Brian David-Clark
Minot, N.D.
Construction Crew

Gage Metzen
Hankinson, N.D.
Cavalier Crew

Trevor Werchau
Minot, N.D.
Grand Forks Crew