The Real Harris: Meet Nate Nielson

Tell us about your background. How did you get your start in the construction/service/BAS business?

I started in college drafting for a conveyor systems manufacturer. Then I applied for a position with Superior Air Handling in their sheet metal detailing department back in 1993 as a Pre-Apprentice, working nights.

What drew you to Harris? What makes you stay?

From 2003-2012 I worked independently as a sheet metal detailer for my own company. I returned to working for Superior Air Handling (a division of Harris at the time) in 2012. The opportunity to grow with a forward-thinking company drew me to the position. I stay because it is never a dull moment and I truly enjoy and appreciate the team I have the pleasure of working with.

What do you enjoy about working at Harris?

I enjoy seeing and being part of the construction process from conception, fabrication and installation. I’m fascinated by design, construction and the newer construction technologies. I’m impressed that Harris continues to be forward thinking.

What is the best part about your position?

The best part of my position is that there never seems to be a dull moment…the biggest challenge to my position is there never seems to be a dull moment.

What traits do you think are important for someone in your role to be successful?

Traits that are important in a role such as this would be passion for the work and patience with challenges jumping to conclusions to soon. Having an appreciation for the people you work with and focusing on big picture items while still working in the weeds. Never give up!

What are your main responsibilities and initiatives that you lead?

Some of the more prevalent responsibilities would be to manage multiple teams of people and current processes. While always keeping in mind ways to improve current processes with up-skilling people and newer technology.

What are you passionate about at work?

My passion at work varies based on the tasks at hand. I guess you can say I’m passionate about accomplishing my work and stretching myself to improve how work can be completed.

How do you like to re-charge?

I am someone who does not care much for large groups or big events. A good “re-charge” day for me is to spend time either on my computer creating new items I want to build in my garage using wood tools or on my 3D printer. Sometimes taking a ride through the woods in my UTV while listening to a book on tape. I love spending time with my immediate family as we camp, go to movies or plays.

What keeps you up at night?

Family and work often keep me up at night.

What are you most proud of at Harris?

I am most proud of the BIM/VDC team that I have the privilege to work with at Harris. None of us are perfect, but I believe we are all giving it our best with what we have to work with in life.

What is one thing Harris employees wouldn’t know about you?

They would not know a lot of things about me. I keep pretty much to myself for the most part. In fact, filling this out for the Blog is quite a stretch for me. Those who really know me would be shocked that I am even participating in sharing so much about myself.

What drew you to this industry?

Opportunity is what mainly drew me to this industry. The opportunity that I had at the time I was looking for a career, as well as the combination of my love for technology, design and construction.

What do you wish the public knew about Harris?

The public should know that Harris is a great place to work. It has challenges, not everything is perfect, but the opportunities are available to people who want to excel in their craft.

What inspires you? What motivates you?

My wife and family are what inspire me and motivate me to do what I do and keep doing it.