Providing effective, timely, and fun learning opportunities for our public power members is a cornerstone of NWPPA’s mission. Throughout our 85-year history, we have been able to continuously deliver high-level programs because of the knowledge, character, and leadership of our instructors. While their names and faces may be familiar, we realize many of our members probably don’t know much about these fabulous, multifaceted individuals. To recognize their contributions and help you get to know them better, we will feature them from time to time in the Bulletin. This issue we highlight Rachael Harms, who teaches classes for our Staking Technician Certification Program.
Harms has nearly 40 years of experience in the electric utility industry and 20 years of experience as an instructor. She began her career in the engineering department at Baldwin EMC, an electric cooperative in Summerdale, Alabama, where she worked for 12 years. About 26 years ago, she joined Hi-Line Engineering, a GDS Associates Company. She is currently a project manager and oversees the training department, obtains permits for the company’s projects, and provides contract administration for clients.
Harms said pinpointing a favorite teaching experience is an impossible task.
“After teaching for 20 years, there are too many favorite memories,” she laughed. “But my favorite part of teaching is developing friendships with those who attend our classes. Hi-Line and NWPPA host a pizza night during each week of training for the Staking Technician Certification Program, and that is one of my favorite times to get to know everyone.”
“My favorite part of teaching is developing friendships with those who attend our classes.”
She said she also looks forward to reconnecting with students each year at NWPPA’s Engineering & Operations Conference and Trade Show, which she attends with Hi-Line Engineering.
In her spare time, Harms enjoys traveling throughout the U.S. and Canada, exploring new places and experiencing the wonder of nature. She’s also a big fan of Halloween, which is her favorite holiday. From costumes and decorations to candy, Harms celebrates the spooky season with the same level of enthusiasm she brings to her teaching.
