Meet The Team: Ron Fender
Each week we’ll introduce a member of the CDFL team, or as we like to think of ourselves, the “us” in the Power of Plus.
This week we are proud to introduce engineer Ron Fender. Ron is CDFL’s resident cupcake-loving Ironman (seriously – he’s completed an Ironman Triathlon). He has also run 25 marathons, 3 50-mile marathons, 3 50-kilometer marathons and completed 2 off-road triathlons* – all the while finding time to hold down his regular job here at CDFL. See? Ironman.
What unique attributes do you bring to the CDFL team?
I am committed to a positive outcome and will work tirelessly to that end.
What would your dream project be?
My dream project would be designing a zoo or large aquarium.
What would surprise us most about your job?
Power and lighting elements of a building are only a portion of what the electrical group is responsible for designing. We are also responsible for fire alarm, automatic access control, CCTV (closed circuit television), communications, mass notification, and audio/visual systems. The use of technology in buildings is increasing all the time as we strive to make the places where we live, work, and play more enjoyable and more energy efficient.
What do you do at CDFL?
I am a Senior Associate and Electrical Engineer.
What exciting thing are you working on right now?
I’m working on the University of Mississippi’s new School of Medicine, which will be located on the University of Mississippi Medical Center’s campus. It’s exciting to me because it will be a state-of-the-art teaching facility and will bring positive attention to our city and state.
What is the best thing about working at CDFL?
The people. We have a broad range of personalities, interests, and areas of expertise here and that keeps things exciting.
What do you spend the most time doing outside of work?
I really enjoy spending time with my wife and sons (ages 5 and 7). They never seem to run out of energy! I also love running, biking, swimming, or almost any outdoor activity.
How long have you worked for CDFL? or How long have you been in the profession?
I’ve been at CDFL for 8 1/2 years, and I’ve been in the profession for 19 years (previously as a Senior Engineer with Entergy).
What is your favorite lunch spot in the neighborhood?
Walkers
What new thing is happening in your field?
Electrical engineering and design is changing all the time as new technologies are developed and implemented in buildings. What most people are seeing are advances in lighting using LED sources. Manufacturers have really been able to create some unique and interesting lighting effects while at the same time improving efficiency and performance.
*This editor is exhausted merely typing all of that.