When you think about what keeps Lakeland Engineering running every day, it’s not just the products on our shelves or the orders heading out the door; it’s the people behind them. One of those people is Michael Eck, our Operations Manager. Mike has spent the last 21 years helping ensure our customers, employees, and facilities have everything they need to succeed.
Mike oversees many of Lakeland’s day-to-day operations, including our inside sales team, warehouse operations, and building maintenance. While his primary focus is supporting our Minneapolis and Denver locations, he also works closely with our Omaha and Kansas City teams to keep operations running smoothly across the company.
When asked how he got started in the electrical industry, Mike’s response was simple: “Bad luck.” While he may say it jokingly, that unexpected path has led to more than two decades of experience and countless opportunities. Mike has become a trusted resource for both customers and coworkers, always willing to step in and solve a problem.
Solving Customer Challenges
One of the parts of his job he enjoys most is helping customers find practical solutions. Whether it’s recommending the right rental equipment like wire tracers, power quality meters, or underground line locators, or helping customers select the correct ASCO valve for their application. Mike enjoys making sure customers have the right tools to get the job done.
That problem-solving mindset extends beyond everyday requests. Recently, Mike partnered with Eaton on a large UPS project for a customer with limited installation space. The project required months of collaboration, reviewing specifications, confirming dimensions, and carefully evaluating different options to ensure the final solution met both the customer’s requirements and the physical constraints of the space. It’s a great example of the teamwork and attention to detail that goes into many of the projects Lakeland supports.
A Family-Owned Culture
Although Mike jokes that his biggest certification is being forklift certified, his experience and knowledge have made him an invaluable part of the Lakeland team. From managing daily operations to helping customers navigate complex projects, he’s always willing to jump in wherever he’s needed.
After 21 years, what keeps Mike at Lakeland is the company’s culture.
“The small family-owned atmosphere where everyone works well together.”
That sense of teamwork is something customers notice too. Behind every shipment, every project, and every solution is a group of people working together to make things happen.
Life Beyond The Office
Outside of work, Mike enjoys spending time with his family and traveling. Together, they’ve visited 47 states, explored numerous National Parks, and enjoy spending time at their lake cabin whenever they can.
Most recently, Mike has taken on a new challenge; learning to snowboard alongside his 15-year-old son. By his own admission, he’s “not very good and falls all the time,” but that willingness to try something new says a lot about his outlook. Whether it’s tackling a new hobby or finding the right solution for a customer, Mike is always willing to take on the challenge.
We’re grateful to have Mike’s experience, dedication, and sense of humor as part of the Lakeland team, and we look forward to many more years of working together.