Our team of professionals is what makes Hewitt Young Electric not only a fun and exciting place to work, but they create the fabric of our well-knit family atmosphere, who are dedicated to providing you with exceptional electrical services.

This month we are featuring our very own: Kristina Bidwell

• What is your role at HY?

I am an Estimator

• What prompted you to start a career in electrical construction?

I started my career in electrical construction because I have family that is involved in the trades in other states, and when trying to determine my career path, they encouraged me to look into the IBEW. I followed through and was really impressed with the apprenticeship program and the benefits that the union had to offer.

• How long have you been in the electrical field?

I entered the field in 2009 by applying for and being accepted into the Local 86 IBEW apprenticeship program. I took a slight detour after starting 4^th year school to try another career path,  but returned after a couple of years and planned to finish up the apprenticeship. Before I could get back to class, I was offered a position in the office, estimating and project managing, with another local contractor. After working inside for a few years for this contractor, I determined our goals for my career were not aligned- I now call Hewitt Young home and couldn’t be happier!

• How long have you been with HY?

My first official day was Jan. 7, 2019. I say that starting here was my Christmas present to myself!

• What do you like most about your job?

I love wrapping my head around a job, learning its ins and outs, and seeing it come to fruition when we win it. Also, spreadsheets- analyzing data, processing data, and compiling data. Technology has come so far and it’s very cool to see how many different ways you can track a job.

• What do you like most about working here?

I like the overall attitude. I love that there is a culture of trust, communication, accountability, and commitment. These aren’t just words- we’re all working together to make Hewitt Young stronger every day.

• Why do you think customers do business with us?

I feel that the quality of our work and our customer interactions speak volumes. They will keep coming back because they are happy with the finished project and we have great customer service.

• How do you define success?

I measure my success in a few ways; providing for and spending time with my family, how I have impacted the people around me, and my level of fulfillment in my career. I define success as being able to have a healthy work-life balance and having a positive impact on those around me.

• What motivates you?

I am motivated by the want to always do better. I am motivated to make a worthy contribution to my family, my company, and always continue learning. I am motivated to make a positive difference in the lives of those around me, personally and professionally.

• What is your favorite past-time?

In this age of technology, one of my favorite ways to spend free time (hard to find with a new addition to the family) is going on a Netflix binge with my wife. I also enjoy strength training, health, and wellness, martial arts, and hope to get into gardening. I don’t have much of a green thumb, but I’d love to learn about it and ‘grow’ it as a hobby.

• What has been your favorite project at HY?

I am very new to the team, so I do not have many projects to pull from. My current favorite is our most recent win of Schuylerville CSD in the Albany area. A 2019 goal for Hewitt Young was to land a big job in the Albany area, and we’ve done it!

• What is on your wish list for the next 10 years with HY?

I look forward to helping grow our business, both in public works and in the private sector. I hope to be a face and personality that people associate with our service here at Hewitt Young. I will continue to refine my knowledge and skills in any way I can to help us be successful, both culturally and monetarily. I will continue to grow here in my role and I’m excited to see how it changes as the years go on.

• If you had one meal to eat for the rest of your life what would it be?

My in-laws’ cooking; pasta and red sauce, salad with homemade vinegar and oil, and a beefsteak. I can never get enough of it all.

• Who is your inspiration?

I find both of my parents to be inspiring. They are genuinely wonderful people and have always worked hard. Despite being divorced early in my life, they showed me how to have immense respect and love for your partner, and a healthy relationship. They have always encouraged me to be independent and supported me in my endeavors.  Also, my partner, in life and crime, always pushes me to be the best version of myself. She helps hold a mirror to me when I need it the most and loves me through my ups and downs- THAT is inspiring! Finally, my daughter is a huge inspiration to be a better role model, loving and compassionate, and give her a bright future.

• What makes you, you?

I like to think a lot of love, an amazing family, a thirst for knowledge, and a positive attitude (I try!).