On October 23, 1978, Jimmy Carter was the U.S. president, a stamp cost 13 cents and the Huskers had six wins out of seven games.  That was also the day NDCS Engineering Administrator Jerry Pohlmann started his career at NDCS. Forty-one years, 10 months and 13 days later, Pohlmann is starting the next chapter of his life – retirement.  

In the four decades that have passed since his hire, Pohlmann has had his hand in so many projects, it is impossible to count them all. Back then, there was no WEC and no facilities at all in Omaha. Overseeing the construction of TSCI has been one of the greatest achievements of his career. “It was stressful, but very rewarding,” said Pohlmann. “We essentially built a small city in a rural area.”

Over the years, his engineering team has grown too. Initially Pohlmann started on a team of five, with no computers. He now oversees 18 teammates in engineering, maintenance and safety.

“NDCS was fortunate four years ago when Jerry stepped up to lead the engineering and safety group. Since that time, he has developed a high performing team that has undertaken an unprecedented amount of new construction and improvement projects,” said Jeremy Elder, NDCS deputy director for industries. “Jerry leaves NDCS positioned to successfully complete projects that will increase NDCS capacity, improve our capability to deliver services to the incarcerated population, and equip our staff to keep people safe.”

Rod Anderson, who has worked with Pohlmann since 1979 echoed that sentiment. “He’s the most knowledgeable and by far the most fun boss I’ve had to work for. I have never smiled or laughed as much as I have in the last four years because of Jerry. The amount of history he has with facilities is remarkable.”

In 2016, Pohlman was asked to lead the engineering division. Director Scott Frakes remembers, “I knew I was asking a lot of Jerry, and the rewards probably wouldn’t outweigh the demands that came with the position. Jerry far exceeded my expectations, completing one successful project after another. I knew he was a good leader, but I didn’t realize just how much he loved his work and NDCS.” 

Reflecting on the many projects he has completed and the success he has experienced, Pohlmann said it will be the people he misses most. “This group is a good group. We all get along. I’ve enjoyed getting up and coming to work every day.”

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the team was not able to celebrate Jerry’s retirement with him in traditional ways. Instead, they presented him with a decorated cake to take home. Other photos represent his time with NDCS and were taken prior to the pandemic.