Fleet Recognizes 2024 Employee of the Year Mike Dahmen

This year, we are thrilled to honor Mike Dahmen as our Employee of the Year. With over 20 years of service at Fleet and a lifetime of passion for auto repair, Mike has left an indelible mark on our team and the community.

Mike’s journey in the automotive field began early. Growing up, his parents owned gas stations, and his father operated an auto shop where Mike started helping out as young as nine years old. By the time he was in high school, his talent and dedication were already clear. At LaFollette High School, his auto teacher—who knew both him and his father—trusted Mike enough to let him help teach the class while he was a freshman.

After graduating, Mike worked at car dealerships in Madison and Sun Prairie before finding his home at Fleet Services. His career at Fleet began with five years working on vehicle lights, and for the past 15 years, he’s been dedicated to maintaining the police fleet. His expertise and commitment have been instrumental in ensuring that critical vehicles are safe and reliable, day in and day out.

Over the years, Mike has had the chance to mentor many high school and technical college apprentices, sharing his expertise and passion for the trade. He genuinely enjoys teaching and working with up-and-coming technicians. Mike’s guidance has played a key role in shaping the skills and confidence of the next generation of technicians.

When asked what he enjoys most about working here, Mike emphasized the stability and steady flow of work. His advice for anyone considering this field is clear: “It’s very physical work, and you’re going to have to love this job to keep working it.”

As he prepares to retire in April, marking 21 years at Fleet Services, Mike is looking forward to the next chapter of his life. He will be moving up north to live in his house where he has been building a shop nearby. It’s clear he’ll never be far from the tools and craftsmanship he’s loved for so long.

Mike’s dedication, skill, and passion have left a lasting legacy here at Fleet Services. We thank him for his incredible contributions and wish him all the best as he enjoys a well-earned retirement.

Congratulations, Mike, on being our 2024 Employee of the Year—and thank you for everything you’ve done to keep us moving forward!

You can read about past Employee of the Year winners here and learn how each one has contributed to our goals:

Fleet Recognizes 2023 Employee of the Year Katie Cutler and MORE!

Fleet Recognizes 2022 Employee of the Year Andrew Harrison

Fleet Recognizes 2021 Employee of the Year David Coy

Fleet Recognizes 2020 Employee of the Year Blake Scoville

Fleet Recognizes 2019 Employees of the Year Roger Benda & Scott Tetzlaff