Human Resources

Meet Gretchen, the mojo behind our mission

When she walked through the power plant’s gates to join Associated in 2017, Gretchen felt the difference. Yes, the physical environment differed from the hospital, where she had worked 16 years. But it was the culture that struck her. It was friendly, people were respectful, professional, and went out of their way to welcome her. “Coming here, it was such a different place. ... I truly believe our leadership cares about each person.”

At the plant, she works with various departments to meet their needs, whether it's recruitment, payroll or other issues. “My favorite thing is when I make a call to offer a job, because I know I’m making a change for somebody that will impact their whole family. It’s a good thing. … It’s a great place to work. It’s a fun environment. Co-workers do care about each other. People are here long term, so you develop relationships with people you work with.”

HR works to empower employees, build rewarding culture

Our Human Resources staff collaborates across the organization to understand talent needs and ensure employees have equal access to pay, benefits and developmental opportunities. We work to empower our employees and build a rewarding culture.

Human Resources provides a full range of job functions, including attracting and recruiting candidates, salary administration, payroll, labor relations, benefit administration, compliance, employee record management, employee relations, succession planning and employee development. The Human Resources Division is committed to supporting our employees throughout their career life cycle – from intern to executive. The division is devoted to providing effective policies, procedures and company metrics – factors that keep Associated guided toward success.

Divisional facts:

• Numerous HRCI-certified professionals.
• About 700 employees across the cooperative.
• Diverse, competitive benefit package; multiple plans administered.
• Provides mentoring opportunities.
• Union/nonunion environment.
• Well-established internship program.
• Emphasizes a company culture focused on individual development and teamwork.
• Exposure to a technical business with a broad range of talented peers.