Gregory Aarhus
Emerado
Summary
Highly experienced Heavy Equipment Operator, Diesel & Agricultural Mechanic, and Owner/Operator with over 30 years of progressive experience supporting mission-critical operations in federal, agricultural, and industrial environments. Extensive background in airfield operations, snow and ice control, heavy equipment maintenance, and safety compliance. Proven ability to operate independently, support high-tempo federal missions, and maintain strict adherence to safety and operational standards.
Overview
2026
2026
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Airfield Cleaning Equipment Operator (WG-08)
Grand Forks Air Force Base
2006 - Current
- Operated heavy construction and airfield equipment to maintain runways, taxiways, and aprons. Conducted snow and ice removal operations using graders, blowers, plows, and chemical spreaders. Maintained radio communication with air traffic control, performed preventive maintenance, and adhered to strict federal safety protocols.
Owner / Operator – Agricultural Operations
Self-Employed
1986 - Current
- Operate and manage full-scale agricultural operations. Responsible for the operation, maintenance, and repair of tractors, combines, loaders, graders, augers, and snow removal equipment. Supervise labor, enforce safety procedures, and ensure equipment readiness during peak operations.
Heavy Equipment Mechanic (Federal Position)
Grand Forks AFB
01.2004 - 01.2005
- Performed diagnostics, inspections, and repairs on heavy equipment including loaders, sweepers, gravel trucks, and support vehicles. Ensured operational readiness and compliance with federal maintenance standards.
Diesel & Agricultural Mechanic
Uglem & Ness
01.1990 - 01.2000
- Conducted full overhauls of diesel engines, hydraulic systems, transmissions, and drivetrains. Diagnosed electrical and mechanical failures, rebuilt engines and components, and performed system testing to ensure safe operation.
Heavy Equipment Operator
M-Bar-D
2017 - 2023
- Operated heavy equipment and trucks supporting construction, excavation, and site operations. Performed equipment inspections, preventive maintenance, and ensured compliance with safety standards. Supported project timelines through reliable equipment operation and coordination with crews and supervisors.
Education
High School Diploma -
Central High School
Grand Forks, ND05-1984
Skills
- Heavy Equipment Operation & Maintenance
- Airfield & Runway Operations (Federal)
- Diesel, Hydraulic & Electrical Systems
- Preventive & Corrective Maintenance
- Snow Removal & Ice Control Operations
- OSHA & Federal Safety Compliance
- Team Leadership & Training
- Welding & Fabrication
- Equipment Diagnostics & Troubleshooting
Certification
- Federal Airfield Operations Certification
- Equipment Operator Certifications (Federal & Commercial)
- OSHA-Compliant Safety Training
- BNSF Railroad Track Safety Training
- Valid Class A Driver's License with Tanker Endorsement
- Background Clearance (Federal)
COMMUNITY & LEADERSHIP
Northwood Fire Department – Board of Directors, Emerado Farmers Elevator – Board of Directors, Emerado Sunset Prairie Cemetery – President
Timeline
Heavy Equipment Mechanic (Federal Position)
Grand Forks AFB
01.2004 - 01.2005
Diesel & Agricultural Mechanic
Uglem & Ness
01.1990 - 01.2000
Airfield Cleaning Equipment Operator (WG-08)
Grand Forks Air Force Base
2006 - Current
Owner / Operator – Agricultural Operations
Self-Employed
1986 - Current
Heavy Equipment Operator
M-Bar-D
2017 - 2023
High School Diploma -
Central High School