Manager of Design, Construction, and Maintenance at Xcel Energy
Retired Navy chief powers up the energy grid in the Midwest for Xcel Energy.
by Warren Duffie

During his 20-year naval career, Duane Phillips helped safeguard the electronics systems that powered nuclear submarines. Today, his civilian job might seem less exciting, but it’s still crucial in maintaining the American way of life. Phillips is responsible for providing thousands of Minnesotans with electricity and gas power.

Phillips is the manager of design, construction, and maintenance for Xcel Energy. He oversees the gas and electric distribution systems stretching across the entire southeast Minnesota area – which spans more than 300 miles. His department comprises 117 employees … a dynamic mixture of designers, engineers, electrical line workers, gas technicians, and managers and supervisors.

“One rewarding aspect of my job is seeing real operational excellence,” say Phillips, 46. “It’s a pleasure to be able to keep the lights on for our customers and generate a very positive relationship with them.”

The Daily Grind
A typical day for Phillips involves reviewing management information reports/data to track performance; going over work schedules for multiple service centers; reviewing and approving construction designs/work plans; attending strategic planning meetings to coordinate/decide on short- and long-range issues; and controlling a large financial budget. He also deals with personnel management issues such as personnel development and performance management.

“Aside from the technical skills I learned in the Navy, leadership efforts in work planning, dealing with people, and responding to emergencies have also been critical to my success.”

On The Job
Xcel Energy is a leading electricity and natural gas company providing service to more than five million customers in eight Western and Midwestern states. Xcel Energy has 9,735 employees and generates more than $9 billion annually.

Employees receive a competitive salary as well as outstanding benefits – including health care coverage, life insurance, transportation reimbursement, and pension and 401(k) plans.

Power Up in Nukes
A native of New Haven, Conn., Phillips graduated from high school in 1979, with the intent of becoming an engineer. However, money for college was scarce.

“My uncle was a Navy pilot for 20 years,” Phillips says. “He really encouraged me to consider the military as a career option. So I went to the recruiting office and was impressed by the Navy’s educational programs and technical opportunities. I signed up right away.”

After attending boot camp and electronics school at Naval Station Great Lakes, Phillips underwent nuclear electronics training in Orlando, Fla. Over the course of his career, he served on submarines USS Ulysses S. Grant (SSBN 631), USS Minneapolis-St. Paul (SSN 708), and USS Billfish (SSN 676), to name a few.

Although his career was filled with exotic overseas adventures, by 1997 sea duty had become wearisome: “I was tired of being away from my family for six months at a time. Besides, I had accomplished everything I had set out to do with the Navy. I knew I had one tour left, so I began preparing for retirement.”

The Transition
Phillips took a number of transition and leadership classes, kept close tabs on the energy industry, and completed a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering. When he retired in 1999, after thorough networking, he landed an entry-level management job with a New York power company, where he spent the next few years.

“I came to Xcel Energy in 2005 following some changes at my previous company,” Phillips says. “Xcel Energy appealed to me for two reasons: the corporate culture was very team-oriented, and the leadership had a genuine concern for the welfare of its employees.”

When asked how his civilian pay compares to the military’s, he says the money is better on the “outside.” However, he stresses that you have to factor in the cost of living when leaving the armed forces. You have to pay for your health insurance, and you might not have privileges like the commissary and exchange.

“I tell others that if you want to keep the same standard of living when you get out, you will need to make at least 1.5 times your military salary [with allowances and pays] to stay close,” Phillips continues. “However, your advancement and promotion potential is fantastic. It’s easier to distinguish yourself in a corporate setting, though – like in the military – you must be willing to develop yourself and take advantage of all programs and opportunities.”

Phillips’ Advice

Know what career direction you want to take. “Set yourself up in terms of training and learning as much as you can. Especially think in terms of leadership, teamwork/team-building, and business acumen [budgeting, data analysis, etc.].”

Start your job search early. Network with others. Every job fair and conference I attended gave me valuable information and knowledge. Find people who work in the industry you want and talk to them about that industry.”

Don’t focus only on the money. “Learn about the company culture, values, vision, performance, and employee and customer satisfaction. Your long-term satisfaction and enjoyment will easily overcome a few extra dollars. There’s a reason some jobs have a larger price tag – no one wants to work there!”