At Formanek Electric, a workday feels like time spent with
family and friends. Owner Nick Formanek pointed to the camaraderie among employees as the foundation of this unique company culture. “Everyone knows each other in some way,” he said. “It makes the day go way better.” Trips to trade expos,
golf outings, football games and other activities help strengthen
those bonds, which equates to the team at Formanek Electric operating on a higher level.
This people-first culture extends to Formanek Electric’s
hands-on apprenticeship program. Kole Formanek, Nick’s cousin, joined the company at 17 as one of these apprentices. “I was planning on going to tech school, but Nick offered me an apprenticeship instead,” he said. “You get on-the-job training, working with the guys right away, and you get paid at the same time. I didn’t realize how much you’d learn on the job versus just in school.” After completing four years as an apprentice, Kole is now running projects on his own, a testament to the mentorship and hands-on experience he received.
Blake Dupont, another young apprentice, described his time with the company similarly. “The experience has been great. Every time I have a question or get stuck, someone is quick to help me out. There’s room to grow, and I’m still learning a lot.”
Nick sees investing in apprentices as both a practical and meaningful commitment. The program, tied to a four-year school recognized by South Dakota’s Board of Regents, includes fully
paid schooling and incremental raises for each semester passed. “We’ve been very blessed,” Nick said. “They’re hard workers, reliable and a pleasure to have around.”
For Formanek Electric, fostering talent is as important as the
work itself. By mentoring young electricians, nurturing a family-like culture and giving back to the community, this team of electricians is able to continually raise the bar on electrical work in the Black Hills.
Pictured, back row: Kole Formanek, Thomas Anderson, Nick Stetson, Craig Thaler, Jake Sellers, Cayden Vanvugt, Conner Formanek. Front row: Will Mollman, Caden Mollman, Santiago Barron, Nick Formanek, Luke Pearson, Blake Dupont
1220 Creek Drive
Rapid City, SD 57703
formanekelectric.com
