Est. Read Time: 8 minutes

This month’s spotlight features APM Fossil Steam Project Superintendent, Mark Redden! Mark was led to this industry when he transitioned from active duty in the United States Marine Corps to civilian life and needed to find employment to support him and his wife. His late father-in-law, Kyle Ruggles, was a Union Millwright and longtime APM employee, so he suggested joining the Millwrights through the Helmets to Hard Hat program, which had just recently been started at that time. He joined the Millwrights in April of 2007. His second millwright job and first job with APM was working for superintendent Mark Angel at the former DP&L power plant Killen Electric Generating Station on a valve outage. Mark have been working solely for APM ever since that time going on 18 years in April of 2025! At work, Mark is a Journeyman Millwright, Certified Mechanic, Subject Matter Expert, and Superintendent.  Outside of work, he is a Husband, Father, Veteran, and Volunteer Fire Fighter. We are so excited to spotlight Mark! Read more to get to know his perspectives on success and leadership, surprising facts, and personal motto.

What’s one thing that surprised you about working with APM?

The one thing that surprised me about working with APM, was the close camaraderie of coworkers like the military, and the attention to detail to ensure employees safety.

What is a typical workday for you? 

I usually try to arrive early enough before turnover to conduct a walk down with the off going superintendent. I review the daily worklist and create the morning safety meeting topics dependent on the days work activities. During the shift, I visit the numerous work areas engaging and challenging the crew as well as giving instructions as needed to assist my foreman in their duties.

What energizes you at work?

I love teaching a new generation of millwrights the ins and outs of the trade, and I also love learning new things along the way.

What do you find the most challenging in your role?

Being away from my family for extended periods at a time. They understand daddy must work but it still makes it tough at times. 

What do you like most about working with APM?

I like the dedication to ensure that everyone works in a safe environment.  I also like that I am learning something new every day. 

How has APM helped you in your career development?

APM has helped me in my career development by providing me with the skills and training necessary to become a successful leader. 

What courses, certifications, or programs did you complete?

I have completed many courses, and programs with my local union as well as APM. Some of these include:  Millwright apprenticeship, Keyman training, Superintendent, and Project Superintendent Training. 

What is your proudest moment with APM?

I would have to say my proudest moment with APM was being nominated for the 2023 Presidential Award, and ultimately being awarded the 2023 Fossil Steam Superintendent of the Year award.

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

First and foremost, my family is my biggest influence when it comes to how I approach my work.  They give me a whole new look on life and really put things into perspective.  I also draw influences from past coworkers, GE Field Engineers, and my immediate supervisor Brett Kennard.  He is always willing to provide guidance and past experiences with me when needed. 

How do you prefer to spend your days off?

I enjoy just relaxing with the family and going on vacation.  I also like to get my hands dirty with rebuilding my grandfather’s tractor, and any other things around the house I can get my hands on. 

How do you balance your career at APM and family?

That’s a hard one, I have come to realize in my 42 years of life that family is of the most importance.  I have missed a lot of firsts in my family’s lives.  I intend to make a huge change when it comes to those decisions of choosing work or family.  Family will win every time. 

What advice do you have for prospective APM candidates?

Questions!!!! Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Safety is of the utmost importance when executing any task and just by asking a question can make a world of difference.

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

Becoming a United States Marine, Husband, and Father.

Mark’s Top Life Highlights

The family my wife and I have created, the places I’ve travelled to around the world, and my accomplishments as an APM employee.

Mark’s Perspective on Leadership

Always being there to mentor or guide an individual who is looking for personal growth and knowing personal growth starts with you. Having the mindset that oneself is in need of continuous growth, and accountability.

Mark’s Work Nickname

“Red” or “Hey Boss”

Mark’s Surprising Fact

My beautiful wife and I grew up only an hour and 30 minutes from each other our whole lives.  But we didn’t meet until she joined her Naval ship on deployment in the middle of the Indian Ocean in 2002.  We were introduced to each other by a mutual friend, who knew we were both from Ohio and thought we should find out just how much we had in common. For the rest of the six-month deployment, we spent every waking moment with each other and have been together ever since!

Mark’s Definition of Success

By working to the best of my abilities every day, and ensuring I adhere to those goals. I try to learn from any setbacks that may happen and use those key experiences for the future. 

Mark’s Personal Motto

“We have all the time in the world to do it safe and correct the first time.”

Mark’s Favorite Quote

“Greater love has no one than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.”

John 15:13