Cheryl Brandenburgh originally started her career as the Economic Development Manager for the Norfolk Area Chamber of Commerce and later worked in Economic Development for the State of Nebraska before coming to work for Black Hills Corporation. Black Hills Energy is a subsidiary of Black Hills Corporation., a diversified energy company with a tradition of service and a vision to be the energy partner of choice. Black hills Energy serves 196,000 customers in106 Nebraska communities. They have provided safe, reliable, natural gas services for more than 75 years.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?
I am new to my position at BHE so learning about natural gas and the various programs to support the mission of improving life with energy is a great challenge.
What has been your most important achievement professionally?
I have been very fortunate to work on great projects across the state of Nebraska and see many existing companies grow. Significant projects that included Lindsay, Novozymes, Wis-Pak and BD.
Tell us a little about your family.
I have a great family including my mom, a grandmother, brother and wife, and niece and my best friend and companion Ranger (Golden Retriever).
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?
I was fortunate to work in sales for Vishay Intertechnology. During that time I learned the value of building strong business relationships.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?
I am a lake person, so being on the water is important, but I also like to ride 4 wheelers and walk the dog. I like being busy but being with friends and family are always at the top of the list.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know?
I competed professionally playing the accordion at an early age of 7.
What are you the most proud of?
Completing my master’s degree with a team of co-workers, and also obtaining my certified economic development designee.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Always say the truth, be fair to everyone and respect each other.
What is the one goal you would most like to accomplish?
I would like to travel to Alaska for my final state, but also want to snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef.
How would your friends describe you?
Friends describe me as being loyal, as someone who will listen, and be a shoulder to lean on when things get rough.
What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life?
My dad always worked me with to be handy around the house and be able to fix and repair things.
Which talent would you most like to have?
I would like to have the ability to tell jokes.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
I would like to be an early adapter to change.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read?
Heaven is for Real.
What is your favorite movie?
The Wizard of Oz.
What is your favorite TV show?
Antiques Roadshow
What is your favorite Lincoln restaurant?
Blue Orchid
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be?
I have always admired Eleanor Roosevelt. She made a significant impact as a woman in our history.
What is your website?
You can find us at www.blackhillscorp.com.