Power Connect Newsletter

A Midwest, state-operated developmental center is a residential-program that serves people with development disabilities who have severe medical and/or behavioral needs. The center is divided into three residential units compromised of 13 or 14 homes. Each unit has a centrally located neighborhood house, which has offices for the unit director, social worker, unit physician, nursing personnel, qualified intellectual disabilities professionals, service supervisors and clerical personnel.

In early 2020, the novel coronavirus began wreaking havoc on the world. Long-term care facilities had been particularly susceptible during the outbreak, often with devastating consequences. The developmental center saw over 100 residents and staff members test positive for the virus. In the aftermath of the diagnoses, the developmental center needed to quickly expand its safety practices, which included adding backup power.

Reliant on a robust air return system that is critical to filtering the air to ensure germs don't recirculate and spread, the center needed five 50 kW industrial gas generators to safeguard the system and they needed them quick. With Generac's designation as an essential infrastructure business by the Department of Homeland Security, the company maintained normal operations as the coronavirus began to the world and by doing so, was able to play a vital role in helping to fight the pandemic. 
 
"Normally, the lead time for an order of this kind would be six to eight weeks," said Andy Martin, senior director of operations, Generac Power Systems, Inc. "But in true Generac fashion, our people moved with an amazing sense of urgency to deliver the generators in just four days. The sales team prioritized the order, the team at our Jefferson facility expedited the parts we needed, and all three shifts in our Eagle manufacturing facility really hustled to get the units built, tested and out the door in record time."

While the center searched for multiple ways to enhance their safety policies and practices, completing the order even faster than the one week that was originally quoted, allowed the center to begin recovering. The team at Generac said the quick turnaround shows what it means to put our customers first. 

"When we were informed that a critical facility was in need of generators, it made me proud to know the work we're doing has a positive impact on the lives of those affected," said Alan Bowey, assembler, Generac Power Systems, Inc. "It was amazing to see what we are capable of doing when we work together toward a common goal. It makes me proud to be part of the Generac team."

The impacts of COVID-19 have been felt globally and the virus has left its mark on every citizen in one way or another. During challenging times when people need hope, Generac leaders said team members come together to support their communities brave the time of uncertainty time after time. 

"As we execute our normal work routines, it's difficult to understand the impact we can have on other critical and essential businesses," said Erik Wilde, EVP Industrial – Americas. "This project illustrates that our products really do make the world safer. I'm very proud of the team for their response to this need."