Derrick Peterson, Journeyman Lineworker
Welcome Derrick back to SCEC! He is returning to SCEC after working here in 2006. Derrick grew up in Red Wing, MN, and attended Minnesota West Community and Technical College earning a degree as a Powerline Technician. A fun fact, Derrick graduated from line school before he graduated from high school, attending both programs simultaneously. Derrick shared that he became interested in becoming a lineman because, “my Grandpa was a lineman and hearing stories about it from my dad made me think it was something I wanted to do.”
He started his career as an Apprentice at Dakota Electric in Farmington, MN, where he earned his Journeyman certificate. He then came to SCEC in August of 2006, but, unfortunately, he wasn’t able to sell his home in Red Wing, and because linemen are required to live close to the service area, he reluctantly moved on other opportunities closed to his home. After a brief move out of state, Derrick heard that SCEC was hiring and was excited to apply! Derrick shared “I wanted to come back here because I already know a lot of the crew and I want to stay in Wisconsin.”
Derrick and his wife Megan have three children, ages 14, 12 and 9. They are looking forward to moving into the area and getting to know the people and the community. Derrick enjoys spending his free time with his wife and kids, often going up north to his in-law’s cabin in Drummond. He likes to fish, hunt and go 4-wheeling.
Zach Nilssen, Apprentice Lineworker
Zach was hired as an Apprentice lineworker, but he’s well on his way to earning his Journeyman Lineworker Certificate. Zach grew up in Wilson and graduated from Baldwin-Woodville High School in 2020. His uncle was a lineworker in the Milwaukee area and based on his experiences, Zach decided he would like to pursue a career as a lineworker. He attended Northeast WI Technical College in Green Bay where he earned an Electrical Power Distribution degree. Zach’s first job out of school was with We Energies in Milwaukee. He had been wanting to move back home to Wilson to be near his family, friends and his girlfriend, so when he heard of a job opening at SCEC, he jumped at the chance to apply.
Zach says it has definitely been a positive move. “There is a great atmosphere, a great group of guys and I enjoy serving our members,” Zach said. “I’m looking forward to getting to know the people, the community and my co-workers, as well as being able to advance my skills.”
In his free time Zach enjoys hunting and fishing. He also likes to volunteer his time and has helped out at the Special Olympics basketball tournament in Baldwin as a referee and pitching in wherever he could.
