Meet Erik, one of Price Electric’s People You Can Rely On.
Erik is a Project Management Assistant (PMA) at Price Electric, where he supports project managers with various administrative tasks. His responsibilities include organizing files, managing deadlines, and handling submissions such as Requests for Information (RFIs), Change Orders, Instructions to Contractors (ITCs), billings, and material quotes. Additionally, as a notary, he assists with electronic and physical notarizations.
Erik primarily works on commercial and industrial projects, including wastewater treatment facilities and schools. Each day presents new challenges, requiring him to focus on immediate tasks while keeping track of project deadlines and meetings. This makes his job dynamic and often unpredictable.
Erik enjoys pheasant hunting and relaxing on the patio with a good bourbon in his spare time. His small family consists of his wife, their daughter Hazel, two dogs named Remi and Roxi, and a cat named Toby. Erik loves playing and exploring with his daughter Hazel during her toddler years.
Could you tell us about a project at Price Electric that stands out to you? What made it memorable?
Choosing a favorite project is difficult, as each has challenges and provides a sense of accomplishment. My favorite divisions are traveling and commercial/industrial, as there is so much knowledge to gain from both!
Which Price Electric Core Value do you relate to the most?
I connect with Price Electric’s core value of “Rely on Us.” In a team environment, I often take on tasks that may not be directly assigned to me when necessary to meet deadlines. I approach these tasks with the same dedication because I recognize that our collective efforts significantly impact customer experiences. Whether it involves hurricane rebuilds or responses to Midwest derecho storms, communities know they can trust and rely on Price Electric, a name that embodies family values and commitment.
Where would you go for a dream vacation?
I’d go to Africa for a safari hunt.
Do you have a motto or mantra that you live by?
Control what you can and accept what you can’t.
What has been one of your proudest moments working at Price Electric?
My proudest moment is related to the work done for Fort Myers Beach after Hurricane Ian. From the start, I collaborated closely with the Florida project management team and the presidents of various condo associations. Receiving emails and calls expressing gratitude for our efforts to go above and beyond, address concerns quickly, and put people’s worries to rest is always a rewarding experience.
Have you received a promotion at Price Electric?
I began as an assistant in the Service & Small Projects division and quickly progressed to my current role as a PMA in the Construction Division.
Tell us three things that most people don’t know about you.
- I served as a medic in the Iowa National Guard with the 209th Medical Company Area Support. I participated in training at Fort Leonard Wood, earning a search and rescue certification in trench, rope, confined space rescue, and vehicle extrication. Over 8 years, I completed MDAY (Once a month) and ADOS (Active-Duty Operations Support). I also organized events with Kosovo security forces, including one in Iowa. A fun fact: during the Iowa Games, we used dogs as bomb sniffers at the stadium for safety.
- I consider myself a decent BBQ cook, but I often feel humbled by the experts at Price Electric. I love experimenting on my Pit Boss Pellet Grill and plan to switch to a charcoal gravity-fed grill. My favorite items to grill are St. Louis spareribs, smoked cream cheese, brisket, chuck roast, and hamburger patties, which I sear for a perfect finish. I also enjoy grilling corn and bell peppers.
- I enjoy woodworking and have worked with wood for some time. Recently, I built custom cabinets for my wife’s library. In addition to that, I’ve made quilt ladders, jewelry boxes, and floating shelves. Most of my projects are in the garage, but I utilize my dad’s larger workshop for larger projects.
Can you give me three words to describe Price Electric?
Family, fun, rewarding
What is your favorite meal?
My favorite meal must include chicken fried steak. Oscar’s restaurant in Cedar Rapids serves this staple.
What advice would you give to a new employee at Price Electric?
Work hard, and you’ll be taken care of.
What is your biggest pet peeve?
I hate roundabouts and people who don’t know how to signal in a roundabout.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
While it may not be glamorous, I find satisfaction in overseeing a project’s lifecycle and contributing to the final product. Much of the “behind the scenes” work to meet project milestones often goes unnoticed. I also appreciate the flexibility of working from home, especially when the daycare is closed, which is invaluable given my wife’s unpredictable schedule as a nurse in the OR. We truly rely on Price Electric’s support and flexibility.
What is on your bucket list?
My bucket list includes going on an elk hunt in Montana or taking my wife, Riley, on a vacation abroad, which would be amazing. I want to visit Canada or travel somewhere in Europe.
What is the best place you have ever traveled to and why?
My wife, another couple, and I visited Fort Myers Beach before Hurricane Ian. It was a memorable couples’ trip, marking our last moment of true relaxation before we all became parents to toddlers. We enjoyed drinks, shopping, and the beach, and played bocce ball—a game where players throw colored balls to see who can get closest to a small white ball.
What are five words for anyone considering an electrical profession with Price Electric?
Work hard and reap the rewards.