When Robert Bernhardt was offered a job at Northern Electric, he jumped at the chance. At the time, Robert was a seasonal employee. He was working at Northern after his construction job laid everyone off for the season. A maintenance position opened and turned into a career.

Robert retired at the end of April after two decades with Northern Electric.

For 20 years, Robert has helped keep Northern’s Bath office running smoothly. From keeping the equipment in order to basic repairs, Robert has been a jack of all trades.  Members might have seen Robert making endless laps in the summer, keeping the grass in check, and setting up the festive holiday lights and displays in the fall.

There have been many changes and improvements during Robert’s time at Northern. Not only has the equipment changed, but the shop was also remodeled, and the office underwent a litany of repairs. The highlight for Robert?

“Just the people. Working with and meeting different people,” Robert said.

Even though he’s retiring, Robert has no plans of slowing down.

“They say when you retire, you’re busier than before,” he said.

Robert plans to keep at least one part time job. He plans to continue working in his automotive shop. Since 2015, Robert has been servicing vehicles in his spare time. Robert has always been mechanically inclined, he said. It came from growing up on a farm and helping with equipment repairs. He used those skills at Northern. Robert performed general maintenance, like oil changes, on the fleet.

His family will keep him busy, too, Robert said.  Robert’s wife, Brenda, is already retired. His son, Josh, lives in Sioux Falls and his daughter, Desiree, and granddaughter live in Aberdeen. Robert expects to be busy helping his kids with their various projects. In addition, Robert plans to help out at the family farm.

“And of course, there’s the honey-do list,” Robert said.

Congratulations, Robert!