I’m back with our latest Behind the Lines: and this time, I ventured into the tech-savvy world of our Information Technology (IT) department! With just four team members, these experts handle a whirlwind of daily tasks that keep Crow Wing Power running smoothly.
First off, there’s no such thing as a “typical” day for the IT crew. Each morning starts with reviewing overnight backups, managing internal support tickets, and keeping an eye on our security software (EDR and SIEM, if you’re into acronyms). With around 750 devices—PCs, iPads, servers, printers, and routers—they have a lot to oversee, and they’re all about minimizing downtime to keep our members connected.
Each IT member brings their unique passion and expertise to the team. Lloyd, who loves working with network infrastructure (think: setting up the backbone that connects all our devices), thrives on keeping us connected. Richard, our newest team member, enjoys command-line interface programming but openly admits he’s not a fan of printer issues (who is?). Kyle finds fulfilment in helping others, whether it's troubleshooting or teaching new skills. And then there’s Todd, our IT manager, who, years ago, ironically faced an electrical fire from a mis-connected server circuit in a previous role—yet found his way to an electric cooperative! (Don’t worry- no one was harmed, and the small fire was put out like a birthday candle.)
Our IT team isn’t just about technology—they’re about reliability and care. They work hard to make sure employees can serve members efficiently, keeping downtime to a minimum. Their advice for all of us? Lloyd says, “THINK before you click.” Richard suggests saving your work often. Kyle recommends rebooting when in doubt, and Todd reminds us to check websites for SSL certificates to keep our information secure.
Despite the jokes about working in the dark, sipping endless energy drinks, and shying away from social interactions, our IT team plays a vital, visible role in Crow Wing Power’s success. Every device, every system, and every member’s experience is powered by their expertise and dedication. Here’s to the unsung heroes behind our screens.
Stay tuned for my next adventure—it’s sure to light up your curiosity!