When Darrell Hennemann first considered applying at Cass County Electric Cooperative in 2007, he was not sure he belonged.

In fact, when he initially received an application, he called human resources to thank them for the opportunity, but ultimately decided not to apply.

“I didn’t fill out my first application because of my lack of knowledge,” Hennemann said. “When I looked at it, I didn’t even know what some of the questions meant.”

It was not until a second position opened and encouragement from his wife, Barb, that Hennemann reconsidered.

“I thought, ‘I can do this job,’” he said.

After a nerve-wracking interview, Hennemann received the call offering him the position. Even with a temporary probationary pay cut, he did not hesitate.

“That was the first job I ever got hired at where I took a pay cut before I even started,” he said with a laugh. “But it turned out to be one of the best things that ever happened to me.”

Nearly 19 years later, Hennemann is retiring from Cass County Electric with a career he describes as one of the best decisions he ever made.

Hennemann joined the cooperative in April 2007 and quickly learned that no two days would ever be the same. Over the years, his role evolved as the cooperative grew, eventually becoming focused on facilities and grounds as Cass County Electric expanded its headquarters and operations.

“My job has always been about making sure things work,” he said. “If employees have a safe, comfortable place to work and everything is functioning the way it should, they can do their jobs better. That’s what I’ve always taken pride in.”

One of the biggest responsibilities of his career came with the construction of the cooperative’s IT hotel. Hennemann admits he was initially overwhelmed by the technical complexity of monitoring large HVAC units and critical systems.

“I remember telling the contractor, ‘You’re going to have to explain this in plain language,’” he said. “By the end of it, he told me I’d know more about it than I wanted to. He was probably right.”

Over time, Hennemann became skilled at identifying problems simply by sound or vibration, often catching issues before they became major failures. Those behind-the-scenes efforts helped ensure uninterrupted service for employees and members alike.

While much of his work happened out of the spotlight, Hennemann said some of his favorite moments came from daily interactions with coworkers. Early in his career, he made rounds throughout the building each morning, which gave him a chance to connect with nearly everyone.

“I missed that when it went away,” he said. “You really get to know people when you see them every day, even just for a quick hello.”

Those relationships are what he says he will miss most.

“The people are number one,” Hennemann said. “From the lineworkers to leadership, everyone has always been willing to pitch in. No one ever said, ‘That’s not my job.’ That’s something special.”

Hennemann also witnessed major changes in how the cooperative serves its members, especially through advancements in technology. Online billing, electronic metering, and digital communication transformed the way members interact with their cooperative during his tenure.

“It’s more accessible now,” he said. “Members can see their usage, manage their accounts, and get information in ways that didn’t exist when I started.”

As he looks back, Hennemann says he has no regrets and plenty of gratitude.

“I tell the younger guys all the time, I’ve got no complaints,” he said. “It’s been a great place to work. Good people, good work, and a cooperative that does things the right way.”

In retirement, Hennemann is looking forward to warmer winters in Arizona, time with family, and eventually returning to Fargo during the summer months. He plans to stay busy, even if that means adjusting to a slower morning routine.

“I’m a morning person,” he said. “That might drive my wife a little crazy, but we’ll figure it out.”

After nearly 19 years of quietly keeping things running, Hennemann leaves knowing he made a lasting impact on the cooperative he once thought he was unqualified to join.

“It’s been a good overall trip,” he said. “I feel blessed.”