Bristow native Dakota Cooper has been recognized by Kinetic, a national ISP, for outstanding service to the company and the community of Barnsdale after a recent tornado devastated the area.
Cooper, a Bristow High School Class of 2013 graduate, has been named a “Kinetic Star” for his consistent adherence to quality in his role of construction inspector.
Cooper has filled roles across the telecommunications industry for more than 10 years, from building cellular towers, to completing communication line work and now inspecting construction projects. His time attending Oklahoma State University’s Information Technology program from 2015-2016 gave him an opportunity to capitalize on his experience and hone his trade while he earned his associate’s degree to become a high-voltage lineman.
“When I started with Kinetic, I was a construction lineman and then after some time, I became a manager,” said Cooper.
“However, through those positions, I realized that construction inspector was really where I could apply my background and leverage my continued education.”
Cooper explained that his role now is responsible for ensuring construction projects are completed on time while he ensures all individuals adhere to safety and quality standards. He also inspects completed jobs and works with construction staff managers to sign off on completion.
“If I notice an opportunity to mentor and instruct someone on the proper way to complete a job, I take it,” said Cooper.
“Inspecting quality, completed projects is more efficient for everyone, so correcting processes informally before they become a hazard is preferred.”
Sometimes, there are circumstances that demand more of Cooper’s experience, like the EF-4 tornado that devastated Barnsdall, Okla., in June. In the hours following the tornado, Cooper was on site conducting visual inspections of poles, lines, and homes that were damaged in the aftermath.
“Dakota didn’t hesitate when it was time for him to support in the relief efforts,” said Rich Murtha, Kinetic’s senior vice president of Engineering and Construction. “He stepped into every role we needed from removing debris, to coordinating and executing logistical needs for restoration, and assisting first responders and homeowners. We’re proud to have him on our Kinetic team.”
Many elements of this new role combine Cooper’s expertise in an area he enjoys which has been the most rewarding component. Since filling this role as construction inspector, Cooper has found a work-life balance he didn’t have before.
“I love my job,” said Cooper. “To become a construction inspector, you are required to pass a rigorous training program providing a wealth of knowledge to become a trade expert. The work-life balance I get to experience now because of it provides me more time with my fiancée and my son.”
Cooper spends his free time building his side business and enjoys outdoor sports including wake boarding, snowboarding and most recently, learning about dirt bikes with his son.
The Kinetic Stars program is a quarterly recognition program of Kinetic’s president, and nominations are driven by testimonials received from Kinetic’s customers. Every customer interaction expressing gratitude for a job well done is not just a token of client satisfaction but also a reflection of the dedication and hard that employees put in every day.