Driving Sustainable Energy Solutions for a Greener Future

Jason Colbenson is a seasoned Manager of Quality Assurance at Dairyland Power Cooperative with over two decades of expertise in welding and fabrication. Certified by AWS and ASNT, he ensures compliance with industry standards and codes while spearheading comprehensive quality procedures. Jason remains at the forefront of industry advancements with ASNT NDE Level III certifications in MT and PT, along with a Level III certification through the American Society of Non-Destructive Testing. As a member of the Electrical Power Research Institute's Boiler Reliability Interest Groups, he plays a crucial role in safeguarding the reliability and integrity of power generation operations.

Could you share some insights into your industry professional journey and current roles and responsibilities?

My journey in the industry began when I pursued a two-year degree in non-destructive testing at Ridgewater College in 1997. Shortly after, I landed a job as an X-ray technician inspecting aluminum welds, primarily focusing on aluminum heat exchangers in the initial stages of my career. Subsequently, I pursued further education, earning a bachelor's degree in industrial management from UW Stout in May 2009. Following that, I transitioned to Dairyland Power, a transmission and generation utility in the power industry. My tenure at Dairyland Power started as a Quality Assurance Technician. Over the years, I progressed to become a Quality Assurance Specialist before assuming my current role as a Quality Assurance Manager.

I oversee various aspects of our operations, including managing our welding program for in-house operations at our power generation plants. Initially, we had seven units, but now we're down to just one coal-fired unit. My key responsibilities include managing our National Board "R" stamp program for in-house weld repairs on our pressure vessels, boilers, and power piping. We undergo audits every three years for recertification, ensuring our quality system manual is current and compliant with industry standards. Additionally, I oversee our in-house boiler inspections and coordinate repair plans as needed, focusing on maintaining the reliability and integrity of our power generation operations.

Over the past 15 years, Dairyland Power has transitioned from primarily coal-fired power generation, with seven units, to just one, alongside a growing demand for renewable energy sources like wind and solar power.

 How have you observed the industry evolve over the past few years, and what recent trends or challenges have emerged that leaders like yourself are navigating?

Over the past 15 years, Dairyland Power has transitioned from primarily coal-fired power generation, with seven units, to just one, alongside a growing demand for renewable energy sources like wind and solar power. To ensure safety and reliability during this transition, we are utilizingnatural gas plants to support renewable energy. Advanced emission control technologies have been implemented on our remaining coal unit to ensure environmental sustainability and meet clean power demands.

What technological trends do you foresee that could disrupt the power industry?

Dairyland’s need to provide safe, reliable power as a critical services provider while increasing our investment in renewable energy and next-gen technology requires robust planning. Intermittent resources like wind and solar must be balanced with always-available baseload power supply (natural gas, coal, advanced nuclear).

Could you share any ongoing project initiatives you're currently involved in and provide insights into them?

We're currently engaged in the permitting and licensing process for a new natural gas power generation unit in northern Wisconsin. This facility will significantly add to our portfolio, offering low-emitting energy generation that will serve as critical back-up to wind and solar.

When it comes to specifically electrical testing, where do you see the space heading?

Natural gas serves as a reliable bridging power source as we transition towards greater reliance on solar and wind power. However, future advancements in battery storage are essential for wind and solar energy to become more viable. Currently, the technology for large-scale battery storage to effectively store power generated from wind and solar sources isn't fully developed. Thus, addressing the challenges associated with battery storage is a significant priority in our industry.

What would be your piece of advice to your fellow peers?

Keeping an open mind and continuously learning are essential principles in any field. Given the industry's dynamic nature and constant technological advancements, it's crucial to remain adaptable and receptive to new ideas and developments. There's always something new to discover, explore, and master and embracing a mindset of lifelong learning ensures that we stay at the forefront of innovation and remain valuable contributors to our field.