On Wednesday, September 25th, the Daviess County CEO Cohort embarked on an enriching educational journey to Loogootee, Indiana, where they visited the Daviess-Martin County REMC. This visit provided the group with a firsthand look into the workings of a rural electric cooperative and the essential role these organizations play in powering local communities.
Throughout the visit, the cohort had the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions with key members of the Daviess-Martin County REMC team, including Dennis Wilson (Director of Operations), Josh Dove (Board Member), Erica Worland (Director of Finance), Theresa Showalter (Administrative and Benefits Specialist), Spencer Tomlinson (Technology Manager), Rob Powell (Director of Systems Operations), Faren Lockenour (Purchasing Manager), and Becca Holloway (Communication Specialist).
Key Takeaways from the Visit:
**Cooperative Business Model: The team highlighted the unique structure of electric cooperatives, where members have a stake in the organization, fostering a sense of community and shared responsibility.
**Capital Credits: Attendees learned about how capital credits are distributed to cooperative members, ensuring that profits are returned to those who own the cooperative.
**Safety is a Top Priority: The phrase, “We are our Brother’s Keeper,” was emphasized, reflecting the cooperative’s strong commitment to safety protocols for both employees and the public.
**Technology in the Industry: The cohort gained insight into the evolving role of technology in maintaining and enhancing rural electric services.
**Importance of Communication: Effective communication with the public was discussed as a crucial aspect of building trust and ensuring transparency within the cooperative.
**Facing Unknown Challenges: The team shared how they navigate unforeseen challenges in the industry, using adaptive strategies to maintain service continuity.
**Servant-hood in Leadership: A powerful message on the concept of servant-hood was shared, emphasizing that no matter what position one holds in a company, a commitment to serving others is key to success.
**The Importance of Showing Up: The REMC team conveyed the importance of being present and engaged in every aspect of work, reinforcing dedication and responsibility within the workplace.
The CEO cohort expressed their deep gratitude for the warm welcome and valuable insights provided by the Daviess-Martin County REMC team. The visit was both informative and inspiring, offering students a clearer understanding of the energy sector and the cooperative model that powers so many rural communities.