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Jim Mickelson: A Well of Experience

By Caitlyn Stair, Diamond Certified Research Reporter

For Jim Mickelson, more than four decades in the water well and pump industry have brought plenty of changes, but the work’s importance has remained a constant in his world.

Jim entered the industry in 1980 while working for a dairy equipment company that expanded into pump and well work. A few years later, an unexpected opportunity changed the direction of his career. “When I quit working for them, the guy who owned Jerry & Don’s Yager Pump & Well Service came in my door and asked if I wanted to buy the business,” he recalls. “That was in 1984 and I’ve been here ever since.”

Over the years, Jim has watched the water well and pump industry expand considerably. When he first purchased Jerry & Don’s Yager Pump & Well Service, much of its work involved ranches and individual homes. Today, the company also employs licensed distribution and treatment operators who help maintain county- and state-regulated water systems.

Evolving water quality requirements have also made ongoing education an increasingly important part of Jim’s job. “There are constant changes,” he affirms. “It’s exciting because we’re always challenging our technicians to keep up with the current requirements of the industry.”

As president of Jerry & Don’s Yager Pump & Well Service, Jim pays close attention to the feedback the company receives. Having spent his entire life in Sonoma County, he often hears directly from his clientele, which means he prioritizes addressing problems and making things right.

Jim’s connection to his community extends beyond his business—he’s involved with several local organizations, including the Sonoma County Farm Bureau, the Petaluma Valley Hospital Foundation and Sonoma County Trail Blazers. He also volunteers with the Sonoma County Fair’s Junior Livestock Auction, where he helps solicit funds and interviews participating youth about their projects.

Jim grew up in Petaluma and now lives in Santa Rosa with his wife, Marsha, although the two also spend plenty of time at their ranch in Bodega. When he’s not working, he likes to unwind by fishing and hunting mule deer.

After more than 40 years as a local business owner, Jim’s philosophy has remained the same. “I believe that if you treat your customers and employees fairly, they’ll be good to you,” he offers.

Ask Me Anything!

Q: If you could retire tomorrow, what’s the first thing you’d do?
A: I don’t think I’ll ever retire. We have cattle, so I’ll always have something to do.

Q: If you could time-travel, would you go to the past or the future?
A: The past, just to be more aware of where we’re at today and how we got here.

Q: What’s your favorite kind of music?
A: Country.

Q: Do you prefer being somewhere cold or somewhere hot?
A: I like both equally.