Jerre Helma Hangs Up His Hat One Last Time

“I hope when I leave in a few weeks that people just remember me as a good guy,” said Jerre Helma, who has been a branch manager for the last six years at Colorado Electric Supply Commerce City.

Helma has been with Colorado Electric Supply for nearly 14 years and is officially hanging up his hat for the last time so he can spend quality time with his family and grandchildren.

“Jerre has been working hard to be as successful as he can be,” mentioned District Manager Randy Birely. “He does it for his family, his grandkids, and that is exactly why he is retiring, to spend some time with them.”

When Jerre joined CES, he started out as an outside sales rep in the mountains at the Frisco location. He spent the next four years devoting his time to the branch and left to become a branch manager at CES Longmont, where he spent the next four years.

“After Longmont, I became the branch manager at CES Commerce City which is where I have been for the last six years and where I will be finishing up my career,” said Helma.

Helping Others Succeed

Not only has Helma spent the last 14 years devoting time to his branches to help make them successful, but he also helped his team grow at Commerce City and other branches around.

“I am very proud to say that during my time as manager, I was able to help others grow within CES. There have been four teammates who joined the company are now branch managers, and I am very proud of them,” said Helma. “That is the best part for me. It is great making money, but to me, it is equally important to train and help CES grow.”

Helma takes pride in his achievements and in promoting those who have worked with him. He believes everyone should be given an opportunity and shoot for their goals.

“I see way too many individuals who are just stuck. I want to do what I can to help them succeed and accomplish their dreams,” mentioned Helma. “It is a big thing to give people the time and tutor them; it can be hard day by day, but you get out what you put in.”

Running a branch is fun, but building relationships with customers is key. Especially to Helma.

“I am going to miss my customers, but I know that it will be fun when I get to return for a visit and see them. Not only are they customers, but many have also become friends and family. That is what will last forever.”

Helma believes that when there is good business, good company, and growth, the district will grow even more than it has. He cannot wait to see it happen during his retirement.

14 Years and Many Changes

In his time at CES Commerce City, Helma has been through many changes. One was a new district manager, who is going to miss him and his attitude.

“When I took over as district manager, I knew straight away that Jerre was running a successful branch. He is one of those guys who is strict on how he runs things, who sticks to it, and those are the guys who I have respect for,” stated Birely.

Helma always helps everyone and keeps everyone driven, and that is what is going to keep the branch going according to Birely.

Aside from the excitement of getting to spend more time with family and watch his grandchildren grow up, he is going to miss his customers and team.

“Reminiscing on the good times and what I have done to be successful is what reminds me I did my job at CES,” said Helma. “Being able to help team members reach their goals, training them to develop management skills, and promoting them, that is what helps me remember that I did the job I was supposed to do. Not just make money but help other branches grow, and help the district open new branches.”

Helma let us know that without the team, customers, suppliers, and manufacturers his success wouldn’t be possible.

“I want to extend a thank you for all of our customers, suppliers, manufacturers, and staff for their patience the last few months. They have been supportive during stock shortages, transportation, and manufacturing issues that we have seen,” said Helma. “We wouldn’t be able to do it without them.”

As for the team, they are extending their gratitude and farewells.

“I wish to thank Jerre for everything he has done and all of the sacrifices,” expressed Birely. “There were way more good times than bad, and even in the bad times, we sacrificed together. I am appreciative of his hard work and dedication.”

This isn’t a goodbye, Jerre, it is a “We will see you later!” We wish you the best in your retirement and cannot wait to see you on the other side of the counter.