Meet Jake, one of Price Electric’s People You Can Rely On. Jake is a Foreman in the Residential Multi-Family division. He is responsible for ensuring that employees on-site have tasks to complete, the necessary materials, and the knowledge to perform their work effectively. He has been working in the electrical industry for 15 years this year.
When Jake is not at work, he enjoys spending time with his family, being outdoors, fishing, hunting, and heading to their cabin. He has a cabin along the Wapsipinicon River near Olin, where he appreciates the peace and quiet, which he says is rare to find. Jake has two kids: an older son who is 5, a daughter who is 2, and a big fluffy puppy named Toby. Overall, he says that he can’t complain about much!
What’s the best thing about your job?
The best thing about my job is being surrounded by skilled coworkers who share the same goal of achieving success. People make the company enjoyable; if you can’t get along with your coworkers, work becomes just a job rather than a fulfilling career. I truly appreciate our company culture, where we treat each other like family. It creates a positive environment where you receive in return what you invest. One of my favorite benefits is the Price Electric truck I drive.
Could you tell us about a project at Price Electric that stands out to you? What made it memorable?
One of my favorite projects was the Union at North Crossing. When I joined the team, the project was already underway, and I witnessed the crew’s challenges and triumphs on site. For example, the one-hour drive each way and the struggles with manpower were significant hurdles.
Another highlight was observing the progress we made on paper. The detailed breakdown of the numbers clearly illustrated how a project can be transformed into a successful one, and it felt great to be a part of that achievement. This project won an ABC of Iowa Excellence in Construction award.
What is the best place you have ever traveled to and why?
The best place I have ever traveled to is St. Lucia, where I spent my honeymoon for 10 days. It was my favorite vacation, as it was the farthest destination from the United States that I could afford at the time. We stayed at an all-inclusive resort with beautiful weather and no one we knew around us. We ventured off the resort during our trip to see St Lucia’s iconic twin peaks – Gros Piton and Petit Piton. The twin peaks are two stunning mountains. A volcanic ash-filled river in the valley between them is excellent for your skin. We also discovered hot pools where you can swim in water that reaches about 130 degrees.
While we were there, vendors approached us from the ocean, trying to sell boat rides and excursions. Eventually, we decided to buy one, named “Joe Knows.” He took us to the other side of the island for scuba diving and offered us a fancy juice drink that packed quite a punch. The experience was incredible.
Describe Price Electric in 3 words.
Fun, Hardworking, and Driven.
Which Price Electric Core Value do you relate to the most?
I connect with Price Electric’s core value of “Creating opportunities for success.” I believe the more effort you put in, the more opportunities you will receive. Additionally, working smarter allows you to take control of your growth by identifying areas for improvement and highlighting your skills for advancement. Price Electric fosters these opportunities that enable rapid personal and professional development. Another value that resonates with me is “Work hard, play hard,” as it reflects the idea that you truly reap the rewards of what you invest.
What is your favorite meal?
My favorite meal is Kraft’s Macaroni and Cheese. I also enjoy steak, mashed potatoes, and walleye fish, which I often catch. I frequently go fishing at Lake Erie and bring fish home from there. Additionally, I take a fishing trip to Canada once a year and visit the Boundary Waters in Northern Minnesota annually. Overall, I try to make two to three fishing trips each year.
Tell us three things that most people don’t know about you.
- I’m a terrible gambler. I haven’t had any luck with that. I know people who can walk into a casino with $500 and come out with $5,000 without breaking a sweat. On the other hand, I walk in with $100, and it’s gone within five minutes, and then I have to leave. I can’t seem to make it work; luck isn’t on my side.
- I used to be fast in high school. I ran track, and my nickname was Speedy. Although I only did it for one year, it was a great experience.
- I’ve never broken a bone.
Where would you go for a dream vacation?
I want to visit Italy. It would be fun. I hear good things about the food. My dad went there last year, and he loved it. He said it was the fanciest place he’d ever been to and was worth every penny.
What would you say to someone considering a career in electrical work with Price Electric?
If someone is considering a career with Price Electric, I would offer this advice: be open-minded. Everyone has their way of doing things, and no two people are alike. Be willing to learn different approaches to the same tasks, which will contribute to your success. My experiences working with two or three electrical companies have shown me that each has unique methods. I learn valuable lessons from each experience and combine them to create my approach, which makes me more effective. Focus on adopting the best practices from each situation. Be prepared to learn, work hard, and maintain an open mind.
What has been one of your proudest moments working at Price Electric?
My proud moments range from being an apprentice and answering a code question correctly during a quiz to witnessing a job you worked on receiving an award. There are too many to count!
What was the first concert that you went to?
The first concert I attended was a Bon Jovi concert in Des Moines when I was 18.
Could you please provide examples of what a typical workday for you involves?
Most days, I arrive at work early to enjoy breakfast in peace while thinking about the day ahead. Once everyone arrives, we conduct a Job Hazard Analysis (JHA), review our tasks, and begin our day. I prioritize keeping everything tidy and organized while staying productive. I also look forward to reviewing schedules and any necessary materials. Throughout the day, I address various tasks and find time at the end of the day to respond to messages and complete daily logs.
What can’t you resist?
I can’t resist Reese’s Peanut Butter Easter Eggs.
Have you won any awards or recognition, or completed special classes or training?
I worked on the Union at North Crossing project, which won an ABC EIC Award. In April ’24, I was promoted to Foreman from Journeyman.
What are five words for anyone considering an electrical profession with Price Electric?
Challenging, rewarding, goal-oriented, upbeat, and worth it.
