“The achievements of an organization are the results of the combined effort of each individual.” — Vince Lombardi
The city of Shawano recently welcomed Eddie Sheppard as our new assistant city administrator/public works coordinator. Prior to Sheppard’s arrival, we were fortunate to have Mary Nordin, professional engineer, at the helm of DPW serving as interim director.
Administrator Brian Knapp commented, “I really appreciated Mary taking time from her business and her ‘normal’ life to help manage the day-to-day activities at public works. She continues to be a valuable resource to us.”
Nordin grew up in West Allis. She attended the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, where she met Scott, a Shawano native. Upon earning their engineering degrees, Scott convinced her to move to Shawano.
Nordin commented, “I got a job with the city of Shawano Public Works Department in 1983. I worked there until May 1989 when our son was born. I went to work with Scott that same year, and have been working at Nordin Design Group Inc. ever since.”
Nordin added, “I am glad Scott convinced me to move here. I have come to love the Shawano area.”
Nordin remarked, “I enjoyed my time as interim director. The staff and crew at DPW are loyal and dedicated and should be proud of the services they provide to the citizens of Shawano.”
She added, “I am not sure residents realize the multitude of tasks they actually perform.”
Nordin continued, “I have had the chance to work for a short period of time with Eddie Sheppard. I think he brings a fresh perspective to the position. He asked good questions and I think he will be a great fit for the department and the community.”
Sheppard was born and raised in Fond du Lac. He attended the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, where he majored in public administration and political science. He was a pitcher for the college baseball team. Sheppard later received his master’s degree in public administration from the University of Kansas. He interned in the city manager’s office in Overland Park, Kan., and with Sedgwick County in the county manager’s office.
For the last five years, Sheppard worked for the city of Derby, Kan., as the city’s budget analyst, responsible for coordinating the city’s budget development process, and he was the assistant director of public works, responsible for overseeing the city’s water, wastewater and storm water utilities. His supervision also included oversight of the streets, parks and code enforcement divisions.
This past month has been a whirlwind of activity for Sheppard. In addition to beginning his new job, he is in the process of closing the sale of his home in Kansas, he recently became engaged to his fiancé, Amanda, and he is actively looking for a house to purchase here in the city.
Sheppard commented, “We look forward to becoming a part of the Shawano community. We are very active volunteers for the humane society. We have two dogs, Avery and Mia. I also plan to become involved with the young professional group. I was one of the organizers of a similar group in Derby.”
He continued, “I am a huge sports fan, especially of the Packers and Brewers. My hobbies include running, hiking, fishing, snowboarding and pretty much anything outdoors.”
Sheppard continued, “Amanda and I instantly connected with the community and see a great opportunity to contribute to the city’s growth and development. Given the current economic climate, I realize there are challenges, but there remains an expectation for quality services.”
Creating a culture of accountability and being as efficient as possible with the resources available are some of Sheppard’s initial goals. He added, “I am already aware of the talented people working for the city. Making sure we continue to utilize those skills effectively is important. I’m looking forward to getting settled into the community and helping the city continue to move forward in a positive direction.”
Administrator Knapp commented, “It has been a pleasure getting to know Eddie this past week as I have begun to introduce him to the community and his new responsibilities. I am confident he will be a valuable partner and a great member of our management team. I look forward to watching his career develop here in Shawano.”
Welcome Eddie Sheppard and Amanda (Avery and Mia, too). We are glad you are here!
The answer to the last trivia question — What were the names of the six grocery stores located in Shawano in 1986? — is Country Store Foods, Pick ’n Save Warehouse Foods, South Side Groceries, Al’s Little Market, Super Valu Store and T & C Supermarket Inc.
This week’s question is: What business advertised the slogan “Where The Customer Is The Company?”
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