By Charlee Glock-Jackson
Robin Rego, Lakeview Light and Power’s (LLP) general manager for the past 14 years, has left the company to pursue employment elsewhere.
Mr. Rego began his career with LLP 31 years ago as its first engineer. His list of accomplishments is long and varied. His career in the electric industry began in 1971 with an internship while he was earning a degree in Electrical Engineering at Gonzaga University.
After graduation, he worked as Distribution Design Engineer at Washington Water Power, Spokane (now Avista), Superintendent at Port Angeles City Light and Manager of Engineering at Springfield (Oregon) Utility Board before coming to LLP. He joined LLP as Engineer and Operations Superintendent and in 2000 was promoted to General Manager.
Under Mr. Rego’s direction, the Tyee and Lake Grove substations were built, ending LLP’s dependency on Tacoma Power. He also oversaw the conversion of much of LLP’s system to underground.
He directed the construction of LLP’s new office building and several other much-needed facilities, and the installation of the company’s state-of-the-art SCADA system and fiber optic network.
Mr. Rego also chaired the partnership of utilities that built the White Creek and Harvest Wind farms. The sale of power generated by White Creek enabled LLP to avoid rate increases for eight years. Recently, he managed LLP’s transition to a four/ten work week, which has resulted in customer satisfaction and measurable savings.
In his spare time, Mr. Rego has taught college-level computer classes, chaired Lakewood United and Lakewold Gardens and he founded the Joyful Sound singing group that entertains regularly at nursing homes. He is also very active in the music program at his church.
“Robin leaves behind large shoes to fill,” said Board President Tom McDonald. “I’m confident that his replacement is forthcoming.”
Until a new general manager is appointed by the Board of Directors, Line Superintendent Mark Hadman and Office Manager Sherry Canavan will oversee the day-to-day operations of the company.
Fr. Wichert says
An amazing man who is very dedicated to all that he does. He has been a great leader in our parish community and in the Lakewood and Tacoma area for many years. LLP does indeed have “large shoes to fil”, in his leadership style, his presence, his personal relations in the community, and the many other gifts that Robin brings to the table. May God bless him in his futute endeavors, we hope not too far from all of us!