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Why KE: The Mark Pennoyer Story

Mark Pennoyer, Operational Manager, Engineering, holds certifications and licenses in Ignition Core/Inductive Automation, AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner, and Haz-Mat Operations and degrees from Dunwoody College of Technology and Anoka Technical College. His 20+ years of controls engineering experience led him to KE, where he has since made a positive impression on not only the KE team but customers alike.  

Mark was approached by an old colleague from KE and referred him to the Project Manager role in early 2020. "They said I'd be a perfect fit," said Mark. "After a couple of meetings in the Eagan office, I knew this was a place I would enjoy working at."   

Mark's natural ability to lead and smart thinking make him a key player at KE. "Bringing his experience and year of expertise in the industry to the table, Mark has helped improve and streamline procedures and processes at KE, managing projects to the highest quality standards," said CEO Karl von Knobelsdorff.

A father of three girls and volunteer firefighter since 2016, Mark and his wife call Blaine, MN home. We asked Mark "Why KE?". Here's what he said:  

  • Do you recommend KE to others? If so, why? 
    I would, and I have. We have a unique opportunity here with offering turn-key solutions under one roof and allowing our professionals full design control of projects from inception through the integration process. 
  • What attracted you most to KE? 
    Mainly the opportunity to come on at a level of influence and accountability. We have a talented team and I am humbled with the privilege to be a part of it.
  • How would you describe the culture at KE?
    Energetic and driven. 
  • What advice would you give an engineer looking for a change?  
    Be persistent to uncover the company's vision and values and its dedication to those traits. Make sure it aligns with your values. The skills and talents speak for themselves, it’s the morals of a company that should have the most weight in deciding on a change.
  • Where do you see yourself in three years at KE? 
    Continuing my role in the engineering team and proudly reflecting on the achievements this group is capable of.
  • What’s been your favorite project to work on so far?
    There have been many great projects I've been able to play a role in, and they each have their good points and lessons learned. 
  • Who are your KE mentors? 
    Karl, Rich Kuechenmeister, and Shane Matthees. 
  • What’s your favorite thing about KE?  
    Leadership is an important aspect for me to feel strongly about an organization and my place in it. KE has a great team of people at the helm and I enjoy the chance to work with them every day.
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