Get the Buzz... APM Hydro Powers Through in Nebraska

APM Hydro led a continuous effort in Nebraska at the North Platte Unit 2 jobsite, where a collective effort of planning and teamwork helped deliver a successful commissioning, repairing, and reassembling of an ALLIS-Chalmers Hydraulic Turbine.

Planning for Success

The North Platte Hydropower Plant services effort began in fall 2024, when the team supported the customer in returning a failed unit to service in time for season while also preparing for a full rewind. The request came from GE Vernova Hydro, and the APM team worked behind the scenes to build a rate sheet and secure the right manpower to support the job. That preparation helped create a smooth path into execution and ensured the site had the resources required to succeed from day one.

Both teams were aligned on expectations, safety, and execution, which helped create a productive working environment and supported the overall success of the outage.

Scope and Complexity

Under the supervision of APM Superintendent, Codey Redfield, a dedicated three-man crew executed a total of 1,305 manhours. The crew delivered a fully rebuilt unit — disassembled, rewound, poles refurbished, reassembled, and recommissioned. Careful coordination and steady execution kept the work moving efficiently throughout the outage.

Safety and Life Saving Rules

Coordination and communication between APM supervisor and the GE team worked extremely well throughout the project. The crew demonstrated the APM safety culture throughout the job by using SWAT cards and following GE Life Saving Rules.

Both teams maintained a strong focus on safety, planning, and quality work procedures, which minimized any issues or gaps during execution.  

Learning Opportunities

Positive attitude, strong communication, and APM’s commitment to safety helped set the tone to this project’s success. During this project, the crew highlighted the importance of early strategic planning to reduce recovery time for delayed parts. Learning to plan and prepare provides valuable knowledge and experience that can be applied on future projects.

The project also created opportunities for growth and development.

Apprentice Carroll LeClair did an exceptional job throughout the outage. He consistently put safety at the forefront of every task and showed strong initiative as a self-starter who was always eager to learn. His contribution is a strong example of the quality of execution and teamwork that helped make this project a success.

Through strong teamwork, leadership, and commitment to safety and quality, the APM Hydro team delivered another successful project and demonstrated the standard of excellence expected on every job site.