Dakota Supply Group - Index

Dakota Supply Group - dakotasupplygroup - Index

and together, we would find solutions. We made
quite a team.”
Throughout his time at DSG, Lipovsky was
no stranger to change. He witnessed the
transition from cast-iron pipe to ductile pipe
(which retained the corrosion-resistant
properties of cast iron but featured a whole new
level of durability) and then the next transition
from ductile pipe to plastic pipe (which was less
expensive and easier to work with). “Changes in
the waterworks industry are kind of like the
automobile industry,” explains Lipovsky.
“So many of the options that once seemed new
are now becoming standard.”
Then there was the evolution of the
partnership between DSG’s Waterworks Group
and Automation Group. “We work hand in hand
with the Automation Group,” say Lipovsky. “By
teaming up with them, we can integrate pumps
with automation controls to improve our
customers’ efficiency, which is something
our competitors can’t do.” This collaboration
between the two groups is something that
Lipovsky thinks will continue to expand.
Throughout all the changes that have taken
place and the growth of DSG, Lipovsky still
credits much of his success to his mentor (and
former boss), Ken Ulland. “He taught me a lot
about running a business and how to sell things,”
smiles Lipovsky. “One of the things he told me
that I will always remember, is not to dwell on the
mistakes. He used to say that the only people
who don’t make mistakes are the ones who aren’t
doing anything.”
Lipovsky cherished the knowledge that was
bestowed upon him and will return the favor to
DSG during his summers. Even though he is
retired, Lipovsky will work with his successor,
Malcolm Macdonald, the new Waterworks
branch manager at Sioux Falls, as well as assist
in training new employees.
With DSG, Lipovsky pretty much started at the
top, a place where most would agree he
belonged. However, when it comes to the new
direction his life (and his motor home) are
taking, it doesn’t seem to matter where he starts
or stops – just what there is to see along the way.
WATERWORKS
Spring 2008 CONNECTIONS
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