Distinguished Engineer
Hometown: Brookings
Electrical Engineering,
Robert Wilkens served in the U.S. Air Force following his graduation from South Dakota State College. He began his career with Northwestern Public Service Co. as an engineer and worked his way to become president and chief executive officer and chairman of the board. While a student at SDSC, he was active in band, board of control, Wesley Foundation, Blue Key, Scabbard and Blade and Toastmasters. This record of active participation continued into his career with organizations such as the chamber of commerce, Kiwanis, United Fund, Salvation Army board, United Methodist Church and Boy Scouts. In the engineering field, he was involved with the South Dakota Engineering Society, North Central Electric Association, Midwest Gas Association, Mid Continent Area Power Pool and the Center for Power Systems Studies. He was involved in the engineering and operating committees for major power plants including the Big Stone Power Plant in Milbank, the Coyote Plant near Buelah, North Dakota and Neal No. 4 near Sioux City, Iowa.