Change can be challenging for any utility, especially when decades of experience walk out the door at once. For Missouri River Energy Services (MRES) member Rock Rapids Municipal Utilities (RRMU), the retirement of two longtime linemen with nearly 50 years of combined service, along with a utility coordinator who had served the community for 35 years, marked a major transition for the electric department.
“With that many years of experience retiring at the same time, we knew we needed to be intentional about how we supported the new crew,” said Jennifer Wippert, general manager of RRMU. “We wanted to make sure they had the tools and confidence to succeed.”
As a supplemental distribution maintenance (DM) community, RRMU turned to MRES for support. Jeff Bechtold, now retired MRES distribution maintenance superintendent, volunteered to sponsor two apprentices in the Denny Merchant Journeyman Lineman Program, administering the four-year program locally.
“This was the first time we had formally enrolled employees in the Denny Merchant program,” Wippert said. “In the past, our linemen earned their journeyman status through years on the job, but this approach gave our new crew more structure.”
Becthold traveled to Rock Rapids monthly to administer testing, review coursework and offer guidance on projects. “Jeff didn’t just give the tests and leave,” Wippert said. “He spent time with the crew, answered questions and built relationships, not just with electric, but with our water, wastewater and gas teams as well.”
In November 2025, both the utility coordinator and lead lineman completed their “books,” officially finishing the Denny Merchant program. While RRMU could have completed the training independently, Wippert said the added support made a meaningful difference. “Jeff wanted to help, and having someone with his experience involved added a lot of value beyond the coursework.”
The collaboration extended beyond Rock Rapids. Through the DM program, RRMU worked alongside other MRES member communities, including the Luverne, Minnesota, crew, on major efforts such as a substation transfer to temporary gear in December 2023 and recovery work during the 2024 flood.
“We really enjoyed working with those crews and truly appreciated the help,” Wippert said. “Our team hopes to be there for other communities if the need ever arises.”
Today, the Rock Rapids legacy continues with a new generation of trained professionals, supported by collaboration and shared expertise across the MRES membership.
A Leadership Transition At MRES
After more than four decades of service, Jeff Bechtold retired from his role as MRES distribution maintenance superintendent on Jan. 2. Over his career, Jeff supported member utilities across the MRES footprint by sharing his knowledge, mentoring crews and stepping in when extra hands were needed.
Stepping into the role is Sam Jones, who brings strong distribution maintenance experience and a commitment to continuing the MRES tradition of member-focused support.