Ross Dale, 38
Senior Electrical Engineer
Continental
Wahpeton, ND, United States
BS Electrical Engineering, North Dakota State University

What Makes Ross an Engineering Leader

Ross has taken a unique career path from journeyman electrician to engineering leader at Continental’s Wahpeton, ND, facility. With a strong foundation in hands-on experience, he has elevated electrical controls at the facility, enhancing troubleshooting, reliability, and safety. His ability to design, build, and implement projects sets him apart, ensuring rapid solutions to challenges. As the sole controls engineer at Wahpeton, Ross crafts intricate electrical cabinets, empowering the facility with unparalleled agility and responsiveness. His dedication and ingenuity exemplify the essence of leadership in plant engineering.

Achievements, Advancements & Career-related Industry Contributions

Ross’s contributions to the industry are vast and impactful, showcasing excellence in automation engineering and safety innovation. By creating 12 meticulously crafted electrical cabinets, he has revolutionized equipment efficiency and reliability, leaving a lasting impact on the facility’s operations. His installation of a safety-enhancing light curtain in a water jet machine exemplifies his commitment to simultaneously improving workplace safety and productivity. Ross has also focused on human-machine interface (HMI) design, establishing best practices and elevating corporate safety standards, positioning the facility as a model of excellence within the company. His hands-on approach and mechanical aptitude allow him to seamlessly translate conceptual designs into tangible solutions, distinguishing him from traditional engineers. From conceptualization to mass production, Ross excels in every aspect of engineering, driving innovation and efficiency across the board. His role in establishing the Wahpeton facility as a center of excellence is undeniable, with expertise spanning automation engineering, controls design, vulcanization press HMI development, and complete machine build capabilities. His multifaceted contributions have enhanced operational efficiency and cemented his legacy as a visionary leader in the industry.

Non-work-related Activities & Hobbies

Ross, a North Dakota farm kid at heart, enjoys spending time outdoors. His farming roots have shaped his moral character and strong work ethic, fueling his passion for spending time outside with his fiancée and friends, hunting and fishing whenever possible.

Interesting Details

Ross began his journey at the Wahpeton facility as an intern while completing his engineering degree. Upon graduation, he joined the company full-time. His unique experience as both a journeyman and engineer provide him with a different perspective than most, allowing him to understand the intricacies and intersection of electrical work and engineering. Ross also volunteers with his local fire department.

Why Ross Chose This Career

Ross started as a journeyman and quickly realized he had more to offer the industry. With intelligence and a strong work ethic, he knew that earning a degree in engineering would enable him to contribute more than pulling wires in a traditional electrician role. He was right—in his current role, Ross is involved in critical components of keeping the manufacturing operation running, including controls and interfaces, while also contributing to the company’s safety standards.

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