WAPA honors 2024 ESA winner Jon Fredrickson
The Exceptional Service Award, WAPA’s highest honor, recognizes employees who consistently go above and beyond, contribute to critical projects or committees and advance WAPA’s strategic plan through exceptional performance and external activities. This year’s winners exemplify these qualities, showcasing remarkable dedication, innovation and leadership that have profoundly impacted WAPA and its communities. Their contributions reflect WAPA’s core values and help drive the organization’s mission forward, ensuring reliable, affordable power for millions across the western United States.
Jon Fredrickson: Leading the Charge in Fleet Management Excellence at WAPA
Jon Fredrickson, a widely respected industry leader, has significantly contributed to WAPA and Rocky Mountain’s Maintenance Fleet Program spanning his 26-year career. Currently serving as a Foreman II and Heavy Mobile Equipment Mechanic Leader, Fredrickson began his career in 1998 as a heavy equipment mechanic in the U.S. Army, later advancing to shop foreman at Fort Carson, Colorado.
Since joining RM’s Eastern Colorado Maintenance Office in 2004, Fredrickson has played a crucial role in maintaining and operating a wide range of WAPA-owned and General Services Administration-leased equipment, including aerial bucket trucks, cranes, snow cats and specialized tracked vehicles. His expertise has been instrumental in keeping WAPA’s fleet reliable and ready for mission essential work.
Fredrickson’s leadership of the Maintenance Fleet Program has driven improvements in asset management, vehicle procurement and equipment commissioning. He stays ahead of industry trends by building relationships with local utilities and government entities, ensuring fleet operations run smoothly and comply with regulations. In 2023, he led the implementation of Fleetio, a software platform that enhances decision-making and resource allocation amid budget constraints.
His forward-thinking approach extends to sustainability, introducing fully electric vehicles into the fleet and supporting strategic Department of Energy goals. As a leader, Fredrickson fosters a safety-driven culture, conducting weekly safety meetings to discuss best practices and lessons learned. His dedication to excellence has made him a vital contributor to WAPA’s mission and the ongoing success of the RM fleet.