After nearly four decades of dedicated service, steady leadership, and an unwavering commitment to the people and mission of the Energy & Environmental Research Center (EERC), Tom Erickson, COO and VP for IP, has retired. Tom’s career with the EERC spans decades of growth, change, and transformation. Throughout it all, he has been a constant presence—trusted for his integrity, valued for… Continue reading Tom Erickson Retires after Nearly Four Decades at the EERC
Category: Our People
Mike Holmes Named 14th Energy Champion
Mike Holmes has over 40 years of experience in energy and technology development, significantly impacting North Dakota's energy sector and beyond. Recognized as the EERC's 14th Energy Champion, Holmes's work continues to shape cleaner energy solutions.
Celebrating the 2025 Core Value Awardees
The EERC honors five employees annually with Core Value Awards, recognizing their commitment to core values of safety, ethics, engagement, effectiveness, and professionalism. This year’s recipients exemplified these qualities, showcasing exceptional dedication to their roles and contributions to a positive workplace culture.
Remembering Everett Sondreal
Dr. Everett Sondreal, a pivotal figure at the EERC, passed away at the age of 90. With over 60 years in energy research, his leadership shaped the EERC's mission and standards. He was a mentor and advisor, recognized for his influence and rigorous expectations, enhancing the Center's credibility and impact.
Making the Mission Personal: How EERC Teams Connect Their Work to the Mission
The EERC emphasizes the importance of team mission statements to foster a sense of purpose among employees, improving collaboration and alignment with organizational goals. Leaders encourage reflection on individual contributions, ensuring that every role connects to the broader mission.
Energy Hawks Soar Through the State’s Energy Landscape
Through immersive field experiences and collaborative research projects, this year’s Energy Hawks Interns tackled some of the state’s most pressing energy challenges with a focus on innovation and community impact.
Meet the 2025 Energy Hawks
Established in 2018, the Energy Hawks is a group of graduate and undergraduate students from a wide range of disciplines focused on adding value to North Dakota’s energy industry through a broad range of concepts.
EERC Recognized for Outstanding Support of Breastfeeding Employees
The EERC is proud to announce that it has been recognized by the Greater Grand Forks Breastfeeding Coalition and Grand Forks Public Health for its outstanding efforts in supporting breastfeeding employees in the workplace.
EERC Concludes Another Year Supporting the NRM Backpack Program
Since 2018, the EERC has proudly partnered with Northlands Rescue Mission’s Backpack Program to fight food insecurity among children in our community.
Celebrating the 2024 Core Value Award Recipients
Each year, the EERC recognizes five employees who exemplify our core values: Be Safe, Be Ethical, Be Engaged, Be Effective, and Be Professional. These individuals go above and beyond in their roles, demonstrating exceptional dedication, leadership, and commitment to excellence. Congratulations to this year’s honorees!

