Eric Dennison, 34
Outside Sales Account Manager
DSG
May 2026 marks Eric’s eighth year in the industry—all with DSG. “I began my career at the counter, where I worked for more than two years developing product knowledge and customer service experience,” he recalled. “I then transitioned into a quotation’s role for approximately two years, further strengthening my understanding of project pricing, specifications, and vendor coordination. For the past three years, I have served as an outside sales account manager, focusing on customer relationships, business development, and strategic account growth.”
Eric earned a degree in Accountancy from the University of North Dakota and began his career working in-house accounting and inventory management at a pasta manufacturing facility operated by General Mills. “After about a year, the company made the strategic decision to relocate its inventory specialist roles to Philadelphia,” he said. “As I was not interested in relocating, I evaluated alternative opportunities. Although the plant offered to retain me in a managerial capacity, I ultimately decided to explore positions that aligned more closely with my long-term professional goals.”
During that time, a family friend encouraged him to consider a role at the counter within the electrical distribution industry. “What initially appealed to me was the clear opportunity for advancement for individuals willing to invest effort and demonstrate capability,” he said. “I was also drawn to working and engaging directly with customers, solving problems in real time, and contributing to tangible project outcomes. What continues to motivate me at DSG is the strength of its people and culture. DSG prioritizes employee development both professionally and personally, encouraging an environment centered on growth, accountability, and collaboration. I consider myself fortunate to work alongside driven, knowledgeable individuals who contribute to a high-performing and team-oriented organization.”
Asked to identify a challenge the industry is currently facing, Eric said “The electrical industry is currently navigating a range of complex challenges. Persistent raw material constraints remain an issue, as supply chains have not fully stabilized in the years following global disruptions, while overall demand has reached historically high levels. Additional pressures include aging grid infrastructure, equipment bottlenecks, and ongoing labor shortages.”
He added that a particularly significant challenge is the evolution of supply chain strategy. “Many companies have shifted from maintaining substantial on-hand inventory to operating under leaner inventory models with reliance on just-in-time replenishment,” Eric explained. “While efficient in theory, this approach requires precise forecasting and disciplined planning to ensure consistent stock flow. Maintaining sufficient inventory levels is critical to supporting contractors and end users who increasingly expect immediate availability; delays often result in lost business.
“Moreover, lean inventory systems heighten vulnerability to external disruptions,” he continued. “Large-scale events—such as natural disasters, pandemics, or geopolitical instability—can quickly interrupt production and transportation networks, extending lead times and impacting the entire industry. To mitigate these risks, organizations must adopt more strategic and proactive supply chain planning. This includes improved demand forecasting, diversified sourcing strategies, contingency planning, and enhanced responsiveness throughout the procurement and distribution process. Strengthening these areas will be essential to maintaining operational continuity and supporting the industry’s continued growth.”
Looking ahead, Eric aspires to transition into a management-focused role, potentially within sales or within supply chain operations or vendor relations. “I strongly value the importance of internal collaboration, customer partnerships, and broader industry relationships,” he explained. “I believe that developing and maintaining strong professional relationships is essential to driving sustainable growth and creating mutual value across organizations. At this stage, I am approaching my development one step at a time—fully engaging with each opportunity and challenge as it arises. My focus is on performing at a high level in my current responsibilities until the next opportunity arises. I aim to develop a thorough understanding of the roles ahead of me, including what differentiates high-performing leaders and successful teams. By doing so, I hope to refine my approach, adapt strategically, and continue improving my effectiveness within the organization and the industry.”
What would Eric tell someone just entering electrical distribution? “Success in this industry is built on a strong work ethic and building meaningful professional relationships,” he said. “It’s important to have a clear sense of direction, understanding both your short- and long-term goals—while remaining flexible as opportunities arise. One of the industry’s greatest strengths is the caliber of its people; the relationships formed here are often what make careers both sustainable and rewarding. Developing a broad understanding of your products and the market is essential. Equally important is maintaining curiosity, asking thoughtful questions and continuously seeking to increase your knowledge. No one can know everything; however, effective professionals understand where to find reliable information and whom to consult when support is needed.”
Outside of work, “First and foremost, I am a loving father and husband,” said Eric. “In my free time, I enjoy golfing and spending time at the lake during the summer months. I am also an avid supporter of University of North Dakota men’s ice hockey team and the Minnesota Vikings. I attend as many games as possible.”
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Each year tED magazine recognizes 30 of the industry’s best and brightest under the age of 35. Please visit tEDmag.com/30Under35 for nomination information and updates about the 2026 program. Questions can be sent to tED Editor Misty Byers at mbyers@naed.org.
Tagged with 2025 30 Under 35, 30 under 35, DSG, people