This month’s spotlight features APM Gas Power Senior Operations Division Leader, Mike Benacquisto! Mike was exposed to this industry through his dad, a millwright, and decided to follow him and his brother into the trade. His first experience with APM was in 1997 when he was sent out to an install by his local union hall. Mike started working with APM in 2001 and has worked in multiple roles since, including his current function of Senior Operations Division Leader. Outside of work, Mike is a husband, JATC board member, and dog dad. We are so excited to spotlight Mike! Read more to get to know his top life highlights, interesting perspective on leadership, and favorite quote.

What is a typical workday for you?

 

Calls start between 7-8 am and go until the evening. During that time, I am scheduling supers for different outages, helping with getting manpower and any issues the supers are having, and communicating with other regions and divisions to make sure all holes are filled.

 

What energizes you at work?

 

Helping to strengthen using union labor in the power generation industry and making APM a top company to work for.

 

What do you find the most challenging in your role?

 

Helping everyone understand that this job is not cookie cutter. Every area and every super is different and knowing how to handle it all is a constant balancing act.

 

What do you like most about working with APM?

 

The flexibility and strong union connection.

 

How has APM helped you in your career development?

 

I am placed in situations for continual growth.

 

What courses, certifications, or programs did you complete?

 

I went back to school and received my Bachelor of Science in organization leadership.

 

What is your proudest moment with APM?

 

Either completing a job in France as a superintendent or staffing the right crew in an area that's typically been non union and capturing that work for APM.

 

Who has influenced you most when it comes to how you approach your work?

 

I have had a lot of great mentors that I have learned from. My brother, Mark, is a huge influence, along with my dad and my friend, Eric Sielaff.

 

How do you prefer to spend your days off?

 

Relaxing with my wife and dogs.

 

How do you balance your career at APM and family?

 

This is an area where improvement can be made, but I value time with my personal family and APM family.

 

What advice do you have for prospective APM candidates?

 

Know what is truly important, and learn how to shutoff the noise.

 

What is a non-work-related accomplishment that you’re proud of?

 

My wife competes in dog agility, and she is the only American to win the most competitive competition in the world, the European Open. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J7MUBD-QhHg

Mike’s Top Life Highlights:

My dog winning the European Open, getting my college degree, and marrying my wife

Mike's Favorite Quote:

“I didn’t come this far only to come this far.”

Mike's Personal Motto:

Don’t tell me something cannot be done, show me how it can.

Mike's Perspective on Leadership:

Saying what you mean and following through, being there for your team and supporting them.