Stay Basin! Supportive work environment, comprehensive benefits, and family values

Basin Electric appreciates its employees and works hard to retain its workforce. The cooperative understands that employees — with their combined knowledge, insight, and hard work — are the ones who make the difference.

Mandy Karr, warehouse supervisor at Laramie River Station (LRS), has been part of the Basin Electric family for 13 years. She began working at LRS in November 2011.

Karr’s scope of work covers all things related to material handling and control. “In the warehouse, we ensure Basin’s spare parts are accounted for and available at all times, especially when in critical need,” Karr says. “We support the maintenance crews by retrieving and issuing material, as well as researching material needs and availability. We offload and receive in freight via forklift and crane.”

Of all the varying aspects of her job, Karr’s favorite is networking with vendors, contractors, and other shops. “I enjoy helping others and being able to call on others when I am in need,” Karr explains. “It makes work easier when you have others there to help support one another.”

Outside of work, Karr enjoys spending time outdoors with her family while camping and boating. Her hobbies include reading, gardening, and quilting.

With the help of her aunt, Karr made her first quilt 16 years ago for the birth of her daughter. “Each of our four kids have a couple quilts. I have given a few out for graduation presents, baby shower gifts, and one as a wedding present,” Karr says. Her creations are important to her family, especially to those far away. “Two of my quilts are currently in Japan with my cousin and second son who are in the Navy. My next quilt will be a Quilt of Valor for our oldest son who is now a veteran.”

Karr has been an avid gardener for the last 13 years, a hobby that runs in her family. “My mom and grandmother always had a garden while I was growing up,” Karr says. For Mother’s Day last year, Karr’s garden received an upgrade. “My husband got me a greenhouse, which now houses our tomato and pepper plants.” Karr’s produce is put to use in her husband’s specialty: fresh salsa. With a history of gardening in her family, its only natural that Karr hands it down to the next generation. “My daughter and I also help my grandma can pickles, jalapeño jelly, and spaghetti sauce.”

Of the benefits offered at Basin Electric, Karr enjoys the health insurance, on-site medical staff, and retirement benefits. “Retirement means that my husband and I will be able to enjoy our time with our grandchildren and be able to see and do the things we have always wanted to do,” Karr says.

The benefits employees receive are intended to enhance the lives of those who dedicate their hard work to the cooperative family. “Having the ability to see my kids’ sporting events and take time to see family is so important to me,” Karr says.  “We can’t get the time with our kids back once they are grown, and I’m grateful for Basin Electric’s understanding throughout.”