MnDOT’s Kelly O’Brien retires after almost 38 years of public service

BEMIDJI, Minn. –Kelly O’Brien will retire from the Minnesota Department of Transportation on July 6, 2026, after almost 38 years of dedicated state service.

O’Brien began his MnDOT career in 1988 at the Golden Valley Headquarters in traffic operations. He later moved into maintenance, serving both the Wadena and Erskine truck stations for three years each. O’Brien then spent eight years at the Bemidji sign shop before becoming TGS in Bemidji maintenance followed by TGS at the Northome truck station in 2016. He said the job has changed over the years as more technology has become available.

O’Brien said he will miss the camaraderie with his crew, the satisfaction of getting the job done, and even the challenge of plowing snow. He looks forward to plenty of hunting, fishing, and escaping to Florida during the winter months.

MnDOT extends its sincere appreciation to Kelly for his remarkable 38 years of service and his dedication to the people of Minnesota.

Learn more about MnDOT District 2 at www.mndot.gov/d2.

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