This month we spotlight Rick Hild, Quality Assurance Supervisor for Com-Ed. Join us as we take some time to learn about Rick and see what his favorite things are! Rick, the floor is yours.
Please provide some quick background about yourself. Where were you born or raised? Any education/degrees/certs? Favorite hobby or activity, if you have one.
I was born and raised in Springfield, Illinois, and have lived in the area my entire life. I am a graduate of Southern Illinois University, where I received my bachelor’s degree in Political Science. After that, I enrolled in Coyne College, where I received certification in Electrical Construction and Maintenance. This is where I found my love of energy efficiency and helping others save money on their utilities. I went on to work for the Illinois Home Weatherization Assistance Program and their implementation contractors (similar to CMC). I also acquired the Building Performance Institute Building Analyst and Envelope Professional certifications.
Prior to joining CMC, what did you know of energy efficiency or the industry? What made you join CMC?
I’ve been in the industry since 2009. I started in weatherization assistance programs and worked for several independent contractors in the Chicago area. I came to CMC because I knew the teams well, and we had a good history working on other projects. From my experience in the industry over the years, CMC is a family-like environment, something most companies do not have.
What motivates you about the work that you do?
Saving energy, helping people with tangible results and improving the community. It may sound cliché, but it’s true.
What was a recent personal or team “win” (project or initiative) that went well and/or you are proud of?
Every day is a win, and my team is awesome. We are a cohesive unit, helping the communities we serve each day.
What do you do for fun? Do you have any hidden talents, hobbies or interests?
I enjoy playing guitar and I used to play in punk rock bands in my youth. I also love anything outdoors, including camping, fishing, biking, hiking and boating. I love road trips and traveling with my kids. We are big fans of the Northwoods (the upper peninsula of Michigan and Wisconsin).
Last year at the Salt Shed in Chicago I saw Bad Religion and Social Distortion. This was one of the most interesting rock show I’ve been to in a while, because the venue is so cool. It’s an old gigantic Morton Salt storage facility downtown converted into a music venue. If you’re ever in the area, its worth seeing a show there.
Do you have any plans for the next few months, summer vacations, etc.?
I am looking forward to a European trip to Germany, Austria and Italy for two weeks in June. My family and I are going to Thunder Bay, Ontario, next summer, and we are really looking forward to that.