Gabe with his son Sully.
Gabe Sandholm joined Dungarvin last year as a Risk Management Director, working out of the Mendota Heights, Minnesota, office. He had spent 18 years in the environmental engineering consulting field, working in human resources roles, as well as safety and risk management. Before coming to Dungarvin he spent five years as a Safety and Compliance Manager for Viking Electric, a Minneapolis-based electrical distribution company.
What do you value about your Dungarvin team?
Every day is an education. I am always learning something new from the talented members of our Risk Management team. I also get the opportunity to partner with, support and learn from a variety of employees and departments throughout the company.
How did the place where you grew up shape who you are today?
I grew up in a small town in Northwest Iowa. My folks still live there. My dad has spent the last 44 years (and still going) working at the local grocery store. My mom retired a few years ago after 30 years working for a company that serves adults with disabilities. My small-town upbringing showed me the value of hard work and community involvement. We should all be helping out where we can.
What do you like to do for fun?
I like most things related to live music. My wife and I often go to concerts, shows and music festivals. I’m also a hobbyist guitar player in a cover band (we play in my garage once a week).
Who are your heroes in life and why?
Growing up, it was Dan Marino from the Miami Dolphins. I really thought I was going to play in the NFL! Over the last several decades, however, it has been my father-in-law. He set the example of taking initiative and figuring things out for yourself. He was a farmer his whole life, as well as a maintenance man at John Deere for 30 years. If he wanted or needed something, he would figure out how to make it with whatever he had available. That mindset has been a really powerful tool for me over the years.
If you weren’t working for Dungarvin, what would be your dream job?
A long-haul truck driver! I love driving and I love road trips (as long as the weather is good).