BJ Bernard to join TECA team as vice president of member services

The Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association is pleased to announce that BJ Bernard will join the team as vice president of member services. Bernard will assume his new duties in conjunction with the TECA Annual Meeting in November, bringing with him more than 25 years of utility operations experience.

Todd Blocker, who currently serves in this position, recently announced his plans to retire after more than 13 years at the association.

Bernard has an extensive background in utility operations, having served in operational and management roles at multiple utilities. He began his career as an engineering technician at an electric cooperative in Louisiana before coming to Dickson Electric System where he spent 12 years. He joined the staff of Duck River Electric Membership Corporation in 2018 to oversee the co-op’s IT systems, eventually becoming director of broadband deployment. He currently serves as director of technology alignment for Seven States Power Corporation. Bernard holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Austin Peay State University.

The vice president of member services role at TECA provides senior leadership for several of the association’s core functions, including mutual aid coordination and youth programs – a unique combination. “BJ’s deep background in utility operations combined with his experience and passion for helping young people make him uniquely suited for this position,” said Mike Knotts, CEO of the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association. “We are excited to welcome him to our team and look forward to the positive impact he will have on our members and programs.”

“I am thrilled to join the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association as vice president of member services,” said Bernard. “Tennessee’s electric co-ops have an incredible reputation for service and dedication, and I look forward to helping co-ops serve their communities well.”

Bernard, his wife Heather and their four children make their home in Chapel Hill.