Will Andersen has worked at City Light’s Skagit Hydroelectric Project since August 2016. He joined the utility as a Generation Supervisor of Skagit Operations and is now the Sr. Operations Manager. “I’m responsible for the Operations and Maintenance of the Skagit Project,” Will explained. “My duties cover Hydro Operations & Maintenance, work planning, budgeting and capital improvements projects as well as ensuring reliability, availability and compliance. I lead my management team to shape Skagit’s future.”
Originally from New York state, Will was born in Long Island and grew up in the mountains just south of Montreal, Canada. Will’s managed a portfolio of hydroelectric projects for 18 years, including 12 hydroelectric projects across New York, California and Washington. “I came to Washington in 2014 on assignment with ENEL Green Power and lived in North Bend,” Will shared. “I love the PNW vibe; it seemed like the best place to raise my daughter.”
In this week’s (spot)Light, Will talks about life in the Northwest and what he enjoys about the Skagit.
Will snaps a selfie in front of Ross Dam
“I split my time between Newhalem and the Fairhaven/Bellingham area. Bellingham offers so much, but still feels like a small town. It’s on the ocean and is full of good food and activities. The San Juan Islands is my favorite place to visit; sailing the islands is breathtaking.”
“I don’t think I’ve ever been to a more beautiful state than Washington. I love the nature. The trees, mountains, rivers, Lake Whatcom and the Puget Sound. Places like Artist Point on Mt. Baker stand out in my mind, especially when you can see views of Mt. Shuksan. Washington’s micro climates are unique and something you don’t find on the east coast. In a short drive you can experience ocean margins, rainforests, mountains and deserts.”
“I love to travel, hike and sail. I’m also a boat builder and build wooden boats in my spare time. And, of course, I love spending time with my daughter. She’s six-years old and just graduated kindergarten.”
“Midway in my career I decided that I wanted to manage a project like Skagit. I liked the idea that Seattle was largely powered by renewable hydroelectric energy. I liked the whole Pacific Northwest package. Seattle is a great small city and I wanted to be a part of it and the Skagit Project. When you’re in Seattle, you’re on the ocean and 30 miles from the mountains. What more could you want? The Skagit Project is a great place to be. What I love most is working with my team, crews and colleagues. It an honor to work with such fine people.”