, , ,

Tennessee Co-ops Award $17,000 in Scholarships to Youth Tour Students in D.C.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Tennessee’s electric cooperatives awarded $17,000 in scholarships tonight to standout students participating in the 2025 Washington Youth Tour.

Olivia Griffin, a high school senior sponsored by Southwest Tennessee Electric Membership Corporation, received the $10,000 Cooperative Youth Ambassador Scholarship. The award goes to a former Youth Tour delegate who remains active with their local electric cooperative and completes a series of community service projects during their senior year. Griffin’s name was randomly selected from a pool of eligible delegates across the state.

Nila Parrott of Appalachian Electric Cooperative earned first place and a $3,000 scholarship, while Cam Stanley of Caney Fork Electric Cooperative received second place and a $2,000 scholarship in this year’s Washington Youth Tour writing contest. Claire Bradford of Fayetteville Public Utilities and Else Spraggins of Middle Tennessee Electric tied for third place, each receiving a $1,000 award. The scholarships are given in memory of Robert McCarty, a beloved employee of Volunteer Energy Cooperative and long-time Youth Tour chaperone who passed away in 2015. His legacy of mentorship and encouragement lives on through this recognition of outstanding student writing. Their original stories, selected from thousands of entries across the state, explored the theme “Electric Cooperatives: Energizing Every Moment.”

Also announced this evening was Tennessee’s representative to the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s Youth Leadership Council. Luke Morris, a delegate from Fort Loudoun Electric Cooperative, was selected for the honor and will represent the state at NRECA’s 2026 PowerXchange in Nashville.

“The Washington Youth Tour showcases the leadership, creativity and potential of these remarkable students,” said BJ Bernard, Youth Tour director and vice president of member services for the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association. “By investing in them today, electric cooperatives are helping build a stronger Tennessee for tomorrow. These scholarships are more than awards — they’re a reflection of our commitment to education, service and community.”

This week, 139 high school juniors from across Tennessee are exploring Washington, D.C., as part of the 2025 Washington Youth Tour. The week-long experience, organized by local electric co-ops, the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association and NRECA, introduces students to the nation’s history, government and the role of electric cooperatives.

Laura Beth Laden, co-director of the trip, reflected on the impact of the week. “The students on this year’s tour have impressed us with their curiosity, kindness and leadership,” said Laden. “They’ve engaged deeply in every opportunity — from learning about our nation’s history to building lasting friendships. It’s inspiring to watch them grow, and it gives us all hope for the future.”

/by
, , ,

People Behind the Power – Meet Tina Young

Tennessee electric cooperatives power the state. Co-ops provide for 3 million Tennesseans —that’s 72% of the state’s landmass and 41% of the state’s population. That power wouldn’t be possible though without the employees, lineworkers and board members across the 23 cooperatives. Tina Young is one of the people behind that power.

Whether she’s balancing ledgers at work, planning youth events at church or comforting a neighbor in need, Cumberland Electric Membership Corporation’s Tina Young brings a spirit of compassion and service to everything she does. From military bases to co-op counters, she has spent her life lifting others — and now, even in the face of personal challenges, that commitment remains unwavering.

Young is originally from McComb, Mississippi, a rural town about 70 miles south of Jackson, near the Louisiana border. She met her husband, Stratie, in college and after graduation, he joined the U.S. Army. Together they and their now four children traveled the nation and enjoyed time together in Alaska, Arizona and twice in Tennessee. Stratie retired in 2017 after 20 years of service. The family then decided to stay in Clarksville.

Up until being stationed at Fort Campbell, Young was a stay-at-home mom for 17 years. She has now been working at Cumberland Electric Membership Corporation for six years. Young started out as a customer account representative.

“I just loved interacting with the members and helping them,” Young said.

After a few years of being in that role, she moved to the call center and then to financial services where she now is an accountant. Young oversees all financial statements and the general ledger for the cooperative.

“I have learned quite a bit,” Young said. “Just to see the role that a co-op plays in members’ lives, especially one as large at CEMC has been incredible. The members are always the focus of everything we do. I love that I can work with a company that is so involved with the community and making sure the members are taken care of. It’s just a happy place for me to be.”

Young herself has also been very involved with the community. She has spent many years supporting teachers and administrators through the local PTA. Over time, she was a board member and the treasurer helping support the school system, plan activities and raise funds. During Stratie’s time in the army, Young served as an Army FRG (Family Readiness Group) Leader. Through that role, she worked as a liaison between the unit command and the families, basically helping with whatever needs families may have during deployment. Her favorite task was putting together military retreats, where families had the opportunity to visit water parks, Dollywood or Opryland together.

Today, Young helps her husband who is on Clarksville-Montgomery County Long Term Recovery board that was established after the December 2023 tornado. He has helped those families navigate after the storm and still helps with their needs today. The couple is also very active in their church. Young is the For Strength of Youth Leader, and she oversees youth conferences for over 1,000 youth at Western Kentucky University each summer. On top of all of that, Young is also always looking for ways to serve through CEMC. She says this service mentality was introduced to her at a young age.

“My grandmother was always looking out for those who needed help, and she would bring us along for those opportunities,” Young said. “It instilled that desire in me to help others. I think that’s what we’re all here for is to help each other, especially during difficult times.”

The Young family is unfortunately experiencing those difficult times now. The household has experienced flooding twice this year due to a neighborhood drainage issue that has put them out of their home both times. Thankfully, they were able to get out in time where no one was harmed, but their car and the first floor of their home were not as fortunate. They are having to completely gut and redo the entire first floor, but they are not alone. The CEMC family has continuously provided support.

“The outreach and the outpour of support from my work family, my co-workers here at CEMC and from the membership has been incredible,” Young said. “Once word got out that one employee was in need, there were people coming through the drive-thru and dropping off donations and I was just floored. It was uplifting and it made us feel like we could get through this.”

Even with the challenges, the Young family has never skipped a beat. They both have continued to support their community in various ways and Young has continued to shine in her role at CEMC.

“Our whole lives we have served and helped,” Young said. “Now to be on the other side of that service has been very humbling. It’s definitely made our commitment to service even stronger. We understand now what it means to be on the receiving end and that drives us to continue helping others however we can.”

The Tennessee Electric Cooperative Employee Emergency Assistance Fund was created in 2020 to assist employees of electric co-ops that have been impacted by disasters. If you would like to help Young and her family during this time, visit tnelectric.org/give/ to learn more about the fund or to contribute.

/by
, , , ,

Safety on display at the 2025 Tennessee Valley Lineman Rodeo

Lineworkers showcased their talents to loved ones while also demonstrating the value of safety last month at the Tennessee Valley Lineman Rodeo. This year Middle Tennessee Electric was the host at the Williamson Family Farm on Friday, May 30 and Saturday, May 31.

“The safety of our employees and our members is a top priority at MTE,” said Chris Jones, MTE’s CEO. “Our lineworkers put in a tremendous amount of hard work and practice behind the scenes to ensure that they are meeting the highest safety standards out in the field. The Tennessee Valley Lineman Rodeo is a great event that recognizes the knowledge and skill needed in this role, and we were honored to host this year’s event in Murfreesboro.”

The rodeo is a two-day competitive event that began in 1998. Employees of Tennessee Valley Authority power distributors, including Tennessee’s electric co-ops, compete in competitions such as hurtman rescue, storm restoration, pole top insulator change out, fused cut-out relocation and more. Apprentices, journeyman teams of three, individual linemen and senior individuals (age 45 and up) are recognized and rewarded for excellence in safety, skill and knowledge in their field.

Each year, participants, spectators and sponsors look forward to the Rodeo as it cultivates pride in the trade and a kinship among both participants and attendees. The Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association is proud to be a gold level sponsor of the Tennessee Valley Lineman Rodeo.

Congratulations to all who participated, especially those within the co-op family.

Apprentice Event

Hurtman Rescue – 1st place: Clay Webb, Southwest Tennessee Electric Membership

       2nd place: Nathan Robertson, MTE

Fused Cut-Out Relocation – 1st place: Preston Campbell, MTE

Overall – 4th place: Tyler McClendon, MTE

Team Event

Hurtman Rescue – 2nd place: Team 8, MTE

Storm Restoration – 3rd place: Team 4, STEMC

Relay Challenge – 1st place: Team 8, MTE

      2nd place: Team 4, STEMC

Overall – 3rd place: Team 8, MTE

    4th place: Team 4, STEMC

    5th place: Team 13, MTE

Individual Journeyman Event

Hurtman Rescue – 1st place: Logan Barber, STEMC

Hurtman Rescue – 3rd place: Branson Hammrich, MTE

Arrester Change Out – 1st place: Logan Barber, STEMC

Single Phase Reclosurer Bypass – 1st place: Logan Barber, STEMC

Cross-Arm Cut-Out Relocation – 3rd place: Branson Hammrich, MTE

Overall – 2nd place: Branson Hammrich, MTE

    3rd place: Manny Bibian, MTE

    4th place: Elijah Stearns, STEMC

Senior Event

Hurtman Rescue – 2nd place: Michael Diggs, MTE

       3rd place: Jimmy Young, STEMC

Fused Cut-Out Relocation – 1st place: Chris Gossett, MTE

                      2nd place: Michael Diggs, MTE

Tie Event – 2nd place: Chirs Gossett, MTE

        3rd place: Michael Diggs, MTE

Overall – 2nd place: Michael Diggs, MTE

For a full list of this year’s winners, visit tnrodeo.com/events/archives/.

/by
, , ,

Tennessee schools benefit from TVA’s School Uplift program

The Tennessee Valley Authority has announced 98 schools across the region will soon be more energy-efficient due to its School Uplift program. Over $2.3 million in funding has been distributed for energy and classroom upgrades to 75 schools in Tennessee, with 28 being in electric co-op service areas.

“Every dollar invested in our schools helps districts allocate resources to what truly matters – providing quality education for our children,” said Monika Beckner, vice president of TVA’s energy services and programs. “We’re proud of the winners of this year’s School Uplift grants, who are dedicated to reducing energy waste and building a stronger, more sustainable future.”

The announcement was made live online and was attended by thousands of students and administrators. Participating schools received anywhere from $10,000 to $210,000 based on the score each school achieved by cutting their energy waste and engaging their school community. A needs-based assessment determined which facilities could achieve the greatest energy savings.

One of the biggest winners this year was Mountain Electric Cooperative. Four schools in the service area were recipients with Laurel Elementary School in Laurel Bloomery, Tennessee, and Freedom Trail Elementary School in Newland, North Carolina, both receiving a $210,000 Building Energy Upgrade and Learning Environment grant. Doe Elementary School in Doe Valley, Tennessee, and Cranberry Middle School in Newland, North Carolina, also won a $10,000 learning environment grant.

“We are so excited that our schools earned these grants, which will enable administrators to improve facilities and make the schools more efficient, healthy and comfortable for teachers and students,” said Sally Snyder, MEC’s director of member services. “The faculty, staff and students committed to prioritizing energy efficiency over the last school year and earned this grant through their hard work. This community has faced so many challenges since September due to the catastrophic damages by Hurricane Helene, and this was some much-needed good news! We live in a resilient part of the country that continues to rise above obstacles to succeed.”

Southwest Tennessee Electric Membership Corporation also had an award recipient in its area. Austin Peay Elementary in Covington, Tennessee received the $10,000 learning environment grant.

“We are thrilled to see Austin Peay Elementary benefit from this grant,” said Clint Malone, STEMC’s incoming president and CEO. “TVA’s School Uplift program goes beyond financial support—it’s a true investment in the future of our communities. As the local electric cooperative, we are proud to champion initiatives that align with our core principles and uplift the next generation.”

Other Tennessee electric co-ops with schools that received funding include Appalachian Electric Cooperative, Caney Fork Electric Cooperative, Cumberland Electric Membership Corporation, Duck River Electric Membership Corporation, Fort Loudoun Electric Cooperative, Gibson Electric Membership Corporation, Holston Electric Cooperative, Middle Tennessee Electric, Plateau Electric Cooperative, Pickwick Electric Cooperative, Upper Cumberland Electric Membership Corporation and Volunteer Energy Cooperative.

Since 2021, TVA has invested about $8.2 million and helped 323 schools save electricity. Through the School Uplift program, TVA invests in students’ futures by offering energy efficiency training and funding to reduce energy costs and improve a school’s learning environment. On average, the program has saved participating schools an average of 10% on their energy bills annually through behavioral changes alone. This year’s participants will save an estimated 5.5 GWh of energy.

TVA is seeking 120 new schools in the 2025-2026 School Uplift program. Public and private schools in TVA’s seven-state service area are encouraged to apply. For more information visit energyright.com/school-uplift.

/by
, , ,

TECA brings home three awards from the Cooperative Communicators Association Communications Contest

The Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association is excited to announce their communications team won three awards through the Cooperative Communicators Association’s 2025 Communications Contest.

“We’re honored to be recognized by the Cooperative Communicators Association,” said Trent Scott, TECA’s vice president of communications. “These awards reflect the creativity, passion and professionalism of our team. The work they do communicates the value of electric co-ops and the impact co-ops have on Tennessee.”

The Tennessee Magazine won second place in the Publications category for Member Publication, greater than $150,001. The only other electric co-op magazine that placed in this category was Texas Co-op Power in third place.

TECA’s Energizing Every Moment campaign video won third place in the Programs and Projects category for Promotional Video – Under 3 Minutes. The video showcases how Tennessee’s electric co-ops energize every moment – both the ordinary and extraordinary moments of life.

Lineman Get Your Rest, a video TECA released on Lineworker Appreciation Day in 2024, won third place in the Programs and Projects category for Promotional Video – Over 3 Minutes. The words in the video were written by Ben Cupples, a lineworker for Southwest Tennessee Electric Membership Corporation, who wrote the poem to provide a glimpse into the sacrifice and passion required by those who wear the title “lineman.”

The contest allows communicators to demonstrate knowledge, expertise and skills in more than 50 categories. Professionals critique the entries and select winners in a blind judging contest. Outstanding communicators were recognized during the annual CCA Institute. In addition, contest participants will receive valuable feedback and benefit from the chance to view others’ work in an online Winners Showcase on the CCA website.

“The CCA Awards are unique because they are open to all co-ops, not just electric co-ops,” Scott said. “TECA was competing against big brands with deep pockets, so that makes these wins especially exciting.”

/by
, , ,

Tennessee’s electric co-ops sponsor students on Washington, D.C. trip

NASHVILLE – 132 high school juniors experienced a trip of a lifetime this week serving as delegates on the 2025 Washington Youth Tour.

“The Washington Youth Tour is more than a trip — it’s a launching pad for future leaders,” said BJ Bernard, tour director and vice president of member services for the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association.

This year the weeklong trip was from Saturday, June 14, through Friday, June 20. While in Washington, D.C., participants took a mansion tour of Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello, the Smithsonian museums, the International Spy Museum, the Washington National Cathedral, the Holocaust Memorial Museum, Ford’s Theatre and guided tours of various memorials around the city. Delegates were also able to tour the Capitol and meet representatives from Tennessee who advocate for electric co-ops and their communities. Other highlights included visiting the National Zoo, a boat cruise along the Potomac River, viewing the musical “Les Misérables,” watching the changing of the guard followed by the wreath laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and participating in the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s Youth Day at Gaylord National Resort.

“Each year, we watch Tennessee’s brightest students gain confidence, build lasting connections and return home inspired to make a difference in their communities, and I got to experience that firsthand this year,” Bernard said. “This experience, made possible by electric co-ops, empowers these young people to realize their potential and see the value of service and civic engagement.”

Delegates are selected through the Electric Cooperatives Creative Writing and Scholarship Competition. Students had to write a 900-word short story explaining how co-ops are “Energizing Every Moment” by supplying Tennessee communities with energy, education, broadband, economic development and more. From that essay, they are then selected for numerous scholarship opportunities, including ones with partner schools, Carson-Newman University and Union University.

The Washington Youth Tour began in the late 1950s. President Lyndon B. Johnson inspired the trip and since then, more than 6,000 students from Tennessee have participated in this fast-paced leadership opportunity. TECA and the member-owned electric cooperatives across the state are proud to sponsor this unique learning experience and help shape the next generation of informed, engaged citizens.

The Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association provides leadership, advocacy and support for Tennessee’s 23 electric cooperatives and publishes The Tennessee Magazine, the state’s most widely circulated monthly periodical. Visit tnelectric.org or tnmagazine.org to learn more.

/by
, , ,

People Behind the Power – Meet Brandon Rigsby

Tennessee electric cooperatives power the state. Co-ops provide for 3 million Tennesseans —that’s 72% of the state’s landmass and 41% of the state’s population. That power wouldn’t be possible though without the employees, lineworkers and board members across the 23 cooperatives. Brandon Rigsby is one of the people behind that power.

Rigsby lives in Kempville in Smith County. He began his journey with Upper Cumberland Electric Membership Corporation at the young age of 19. Almost 26 years later, he serves as a line foreman for the co-op’s Carthage District Office. In that role, Rigsby leads a construction crew that builds and maintains power lines.

“This is a great job as far as pay and benefits,” Rigsby said. “But on the other side of that, we work for members. We are supplying those members with the power they need, and that is what’s most rewarding.”

The crew Rigsby leads also helps a great deal during storm reconstruction, which is one of the tasks he enjoys most on the job.

Rigsby, his wife and three children

“I love going to storm restorations so that we can help people and other co-ops,” Rigsby said. “You know a time will come when we need the help in return, and it’s very nice to see other lineworkers roll in to help us. It’s a blessing that does me good.”

Aside from his work at the co-op, Rigsby has been married for 24 years, and the two have three children together. It’s a busy time for their family as their daughter just graduated from Western Kentucky University and has plans to pursue a master’s degree at the University of Tennessee in the fall. Their middle son plays basketball at Cumberland University. Their youngest son is in high school, and he plays basketball and baseball.

On top of all the fun, family excitement, Rigsby still finds time to serve on not one but two first responder teams in the community. He joined the Defeated Creek Volunteer Fire Department in 2012. The department is entirely made up of volunteers, and they go on about 20 fire calls a year for their community of about 1,500 people.

“I do this for the little community I live in just as an effort to give back,” Rigsby said. “We’re usually the ones there on people’s worst day of their life. So, it is kind of hard seeing people lose everything they have, but it is also so rewarding helping them salvage and save what they can.”

Rigsby is also on the Smith County Rescue Squad, another team that is completely made up of volunteers. They respond to various calls including vehicle wrecks, search and rescues and water rescues as many in the community enjoy the Caney Fork River. Rigsby is even certified for technical rope rescue.

“This is another way I can give back to my community by being there at people’s worst time to help them out,” Rigsby said. “I don’t do it for any kind of recognition. I’m just big on helping people when they need it most.”

/by
, ,

TECA named as one of the largest business advocacy groups in Nashville

Nashville Business Journal

The Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association is honored to be recognized as one of the largest business advocacy groups in Nashville by the Nashville Business Journal. TECA was ranked No. 9 out of 25 business advocacy groups in the Nashville area with a revenue of $8.44 million.

“We are excited to be recognized as one of the largest business advocacy groups by the Nashville Business Journal,” said Mike Knotts, TECA’s CEO. “This acknowledgment reflects the dedication of our team and the vital role electric cooperatives play in powering Tennessee’s progress. We’re committed to advocating on behalf of our members and communities, and we remain devoted to ensuring their voices are heard and their needs are met.”

Also among the list are the National Federation of Independent Business Inc. in first place with $113.3 million, the Academy of Country Music in seventh place with $11.53 million and the Tennessee Association of Utility Districts in 11thplace with $5.51 million.

The list ranks the groups based off revenue from the most recent fiscal year available from Cheatham, Davidson, Dickson, Montgomery, Robertson, Rutherford, Sumner, Williamson and Wilson counties. Information was obtained from individual organization’s Form 990s through ProPublica and organization websites. Financial figures are for the most recent of the three past fiscal years available for the organization. Only 501(c)(6) organizations are included.

/by
, , ,

The power of the cooperative community

Excellent communication, community support and the power of the cooperative community all led 5,000 Meriwether Lewis Electric Cooperative members to regain power within 12 hours after a substation fire.

“This is not a situation we have faced before, but I could not have been prouder of our team as things unfolded throughout the day,” said Keith Carnahan, MLEC’s president and CEO.

MLEC has been working to upgrade the reliability and capacity of their Hilltop Substation in Hickman County. On Thursday, April 24, some co-op employees along with a third-party contractor were working inside the substation when a fire broke out around 9:30 a.m. The crew acted and removed the injured contractor from the substation to a safe area. MLEC’s district 1 manager, Matthew Chessor, and local emergency responders were alerted immediately. Chessor called the Tennessee Valley Authority for assistance with disconnecting power to the substation. MLEC confirmed via phone with two different TVA sources that the substation no longer had power before emergency responders began addressing the fire. The co-op, volunteer fire department and City of Centerville Fire Department were able to determine the fire was contained to one portion of the substation, meaning the firefighters could enter and begin spraying the fire with foam. The fire was extinguished at approximately 10:50 a.m. With precautions, MLEC’s crew was able to re-enter the substation to begin assessing damage. Power for almost all 5,000 affected members was rerouted to a different substation in the county. By 11 p.m. the same night, all the MLEC members who lost power that morning had their lights back on as the Hilltop Substation was operational again.

The third-party contractor was hospitalized overnight for observation but was released shortly after with no burns or damage to his lungs. The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but MLEC believes it was ignited by oil spraying on a hot surface. Due to the fire, a MLEC bucket truck and the contractor’s truck were total losses. MLEC also experienced damage to substation equipment. The fire and the damage are not the focus though — it’s how fast MLEC, the first responders, the community and another co-op responded in the situation that is worth noting.

Throughout the entire day, MLEC’s communication team was in constant contact with Carnahan, Chessor and the members being impacted. This allowed the most timely and accurate information to be shared throughout the co-op and to the members. Through social media, the team provided numerous updates to keep the co-op community informed about what was happening and what to expect next. They even created a map to show who was being impacted by the outage. A request was shared for the members to conserve energy to help stabilize the system until everything was back up and running. The co-op communicators even reacted or responded to every comment on social media, showing their concern for and dedication to their community.

First responders were of course ready at the scene when given the go ahead to put out the fire. A community resident driving by stopped and offered his drone for use so MLEC and the firefighters could do a visual fly over to see how widespread the fire was. This act of kindness allowed everyone to better understand what they were dealing with and ultimately make the right decisions for everyone’s safety. Middle Tennessee Electric even lent a helping hand and truly demonstrated the principle of “Cooperation Among Cooperatives”. The co-op provided substation breakers to replace ones damaged in the fire, allowing MLEC to restore power to their members.

 “As the situation progressed, I was reminded of the importance of good community and cooperative connections,” Carnahan said. “Established relationships with local emergency responders, other cooperatives like MTE, TVA and our members helped the situation have a much better outcome than it could have been.”

/by
, , ,

A conference for everyone

23 electric cooperatives attended four separate conferences in three different cities all in one month. Needless to say, April was a busy month for Tennessee’s electric co-ops. The Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association hosted four conferences within four weeks in an effort to bring likeminded workers in the same room to network, learn and grow together.

The Administrative Professionals and Human Resources Conference and Employment Law Workshop was held in Florence, Alabama, on April 2 through April 4. Attendees met at the Renaissance Shoals Resort and Spa for three days of networking and learning. Wednesday was spent diving into employment law. On Thursday, the group learned how to be aware and respond to active shooter threats, how to not panic during presentations and how to best use TECA’s website. Friday the group received an update on both Homestead Funds and National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s retirement plans. The meeting concluded with tips and tricks on how to balance work and life.

“The Administrative and HR Conference is always a great time to meet with others who all do similar tasks at the office,” said Tina Smith, TECA’s executive assistant. “I always find the three days a great time to reset and learn from fellow co-ops how we can do what we do better and more efficiently.”

Co-op leaders and employees gathered at TECA’s home office in Nashville for the IT & Cybersecurity Conference on April 16 and April 17. For the second year of the meeting, participants were able to not only learn from one another but also experts in the industry from Federated Rural Electric Insurance Exchange, NRECA, Central Service Association, Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and Tennessee Valley Authority. Topics of discussion included cyber insurance, cybersecurity risks, resources and opportunities and protecting OT environment for SCADA. It was TECA’s digital media manager, Joel Norris’, first time attending and helping put together the conference and he had nothing but positive reflections.

“It was great finally putting faces to names, and getting to hear straight from the NRECA on their TAC platform was a real highlight,” Norris said. “All the presenters brought their A game, and the variety kept things interesting. Just a solid, all-around good time.”

Co-op communicators traveled to Pigeon Forge for the annual TennComm Conference on April 22 through April 25. Those in attendance were able to participate in preconference networking opportunities including golf at Island Pointe Golf Club in Kodak, a photo safari with award-winning photographer and former The Tennessee Magazine editor, Robin Conover, and duckpin bowling at the Lodge at Camp Margaritaville. Conference sessions began on Wednesday with presentations over how electric co-ops are still relevant in 2025 and some techniques to bringing the best to work every day. On Thursday, communicators learned lessons in co-op governance and transparency, heard from panels about the future of youth programs and members’ perception of the co-op and updates from The Tennessee Magazine and TECA’s government affairs team. The day concluded with breakout sessions over Canva, A.I. and TVA’s EnergyRight Programs. Friday the meeting wrapped up with tips on how to elevate a co-op’s web presence, strategies to maximize productivity through time management and storytelling in the digital age with none other than Matt Mitchell. Mitchell is the star of a viral video series that has over 2 billion views on Facebook and YouTube.

“The 2025 TennComm Conference was an opportunity to strengthen skills, build connections and reaffirm the critical role of communication in our industry,” said Trent Scott, TECA’s vice president of communications. “We are grateful to our speakers for sharing their thoughts, to the planning committee for their hard work behind the scenes and to every attendee who took the time to invest in themselves and their co-op.”

Also in Pigeon Forge, co-op finance specialists met at the same time for their Accounting Conference on April 24 and April 25. Attendees gathered at the Courtyard Pigeon Forge for networking opportunities and continuing education credits. The agenda included updates from TECA’s Vice President of Government Affairs, Ryan King, TECA’s CEO, Mike Knotts, National Rural Utilities Cooperative Finance Corporation, CoBank, TVA and NRECA. Presentations were also given over cybersecurity and A.I. concerns, strategic reorganization for finance departments, utility risk management and employee retention truths.

“Here at TECA, we are proud to help accountants not only continue their education but also be the most up to date on everything across the industry,” said Kayla Gladden, TECA’s director of finance and administration. “This year the conference allowed us to do just that while also learning from others about their workflow and success.”

TECA hopes all co-op leaders and employees will make plans to attend these meetings in the years to come and the team looks forward to another busy month in June with Summer Managers Conference and Board Meeting, Washington Youth Tour and 4-H Electric Camp.

/by
, , ,

Co-op leaders meet with DC lawmakers

Leaders from Tennessee’s electric cooperatives traveled to Washington, D.C., on Monday and Tuesday, April 28 and 29, to meet with lawmakers and discuss issues that matter to electric co-ops and the communities they serve.

“We were able to advocate for federal legislative and executive branch policies that benefit electric cooperatives and the people they serve,” said Ryan King, TECA’s vice president of government affairs.

More than 50 co-op board members, directors and CEOs from the Volunteer State attended the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s annual legislative conference — a time where electric cooperative leaders gather from around the country to hear from members of Congress and administrative officials and to discuss timely and pressing legislative issues affecting electric co-ops and their member-owners. Attendees heard updates from leaders at NRECA including board president Mike Partin of Sequachee Valley Electric Cooperative in South Pittsburg, House Majority Whip Tom Emmer as well as senators and members of the house of representatives.

“This is the only NRECA conference all year that provides the opportunity to hear from key government officials, then engage directly with your representatives in Congress,” King said.

Meetings were held with Senators Marsha Blackburn and Bill Hagerty along with members of Congress from across the state. During these meetings, co-op leaders discussed issues that have a direct impact on Tennessee co-ops and the consumers they serve, including permitting reform, EPA regulations, federal infrastructure programs, TVA board appointments and the future of nuclear power. Lawmakers were also invited to visit their local co-ops to meet employees, attend annual meetings or tour co-op facilities.

“With new leadership in the White House and Congress, this was a great chance to create new relationships while cementing the ones we’ve had through the years,” King said.

/by

Joint Resolution Calls for Appointment of TVA Board Members with LPC Knowledge

This week, Rep. Greg Vital (R-Ooltewah) introduced House Joint Resolution 626, a measure urging the appointment of new Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) board members who understand the operational, financial and strategic realities of local power companies and electric cooperatives. With five open seats on the TVA board and unprecedented growth and energy demand across the Valley, the resolution highlights the need for directors who are aligned with TVA’s core mission and grounded in the day-to-day work of delivering power reliably and affordably to end users.

HJR626 makes a direct case for the inclusion of individuals with firsthand experience in the electric utility industry—especially those currently serving LPCs and cooperatives among TVA’s 153 distribution partners. As the resolution notes, these leaders bring not only technical acumen, but also a deep understanding of how board-level decisions on generation, rates and long-term planning affect both urban and rural communities alike. This is particularly important as TVA navigates challenges related to growth and infrastructure investment.

The resolution also draws attention to governance best practices seen in cooperatively owned generation and transmission utilities, where board members are customers themselves, ensuring alignment between leadership decisions and customer needs. It encourages similar representation at TVA by urging that new appointments reflect the diversity and practical experience of those currently managing power delivery throughout the Tennessee Valley—especially in rural and suburban areas where electric co-ops and LPCs are critical.

The resolution has garnered an impressive list of over 50 cosponsors including Reps. Boyd, Faison, Zachary, Grills, Russell, Gant, Travis, Littleton, McCalmon, Lynn, Capley, Hale, Fritts, Warner, Carringer, Sexton, Alexander, Scarbrough, Lamberth, Barrett, Stinnett, Atchley, Reneau, Sherrell, Davis, Martin G, Hicks T, Powers, Hemmer, Bricken, Reeves, Howell, Hawk, Hill, Bulso, Helton-Haynes, Burkhart, Marsh, Vaughan, Eldridge, Garrett, Jones R, White, Behn, Keisling, Hakeem and Leatherwood.

/by
, , ,

People Behind the Power – Meet Kelly White

Tennessee electric cooperatives power the state. Co-ops provide for 3 million Tennesseans —that’s 72% of the state’s landmass and 41% of the state’s population. That power wouldn’t be possible though without the employees, lineworkers and board members across the 23 cooperatives. Kelly White is one of the people behind that power.

White lives in White Pine in Jefferson County. She worked at Walters State Community College for 20 years before becoming the IT help desk supervisor for Appalachian Electric Cooperative. She has served in that role for four years now and helps maintain everything electronic at the co-op, from security to computers to even the iPads that are sent out into the field with the lineworkers.

“It is amazing here at AEC,” White said. “I knew when I got here that it was where I was supposed to be. We have such a warm family environment, and I love knowing that we are helping our community.”

Aside from her work at the co-op, White has been married for 31 years, and they together have two sons, a daughter and two grandchildren with another on the way. The family works together at Mobile Lifehouse Ministries, a nonprofit organization they created in 2018 after noticing the lack of food available for those in need in their county and the ones surrounding them. White serves as the president of the ministry.

“The name Mobile Lifehouse Ministries is unique because of its meaning,” White said. “‘Mobile’ is because we knew God’s plan for us was to be able to take it where we needed it. ‘Lifehouse’ is because we can take this, shine a light and help somebody’s life, just like a lighthouse would and that’s why the lighthouse became our icon.”

What started as the family gathering their own money and buying groceries for those in need has grown to so much more. Now, Mobile Lifehouse Ministries hosts a pantry once a month at Jefferson Middle School. Before the “shopping” commences, leaders from nearby churches host a small worship service and provide a hot meal. Then, people from all around can get food, gently used or new clothing and encouragement they need. Everything available has been donated and organized by people, businesses and churches in the community.

“Once I saw the need was there, I felt like that’s where God wanted me to be,” White said. “That need and my passion have continued to grow since.”

Every November before the Thanksgiving holiday, AEC participates in Mobile Lifehouse Ministries. Employees, board members and lineworkers from the cooperative all work together to organize and host the mobile pantry.

“It puts everything I love together,” White said. “That day brings together my family, ministry and AEC all in one place to help our community.”

On top of the monthly pantry, Mobile Lifehouse Ministries is also set up to provide food throughout the week to those in need. White herself along with other volunteers in the community delivers food to more than 50 homes each month to veterans, elders and shut-ins.

“This has all been such a Godsend,” White said. “It’s such a blessing to be able to share and it really makes you realize how fortunate you are. It makes you want to treat people a little better because you never know what they are going through.”

/by
, , ,

A morning of prayer and worship

King and his two children on stage at the 51st Tennessee Prayer Breakfast.

Leaders from across Tennessee gathered for the 51st annual Tennessee Prayer Breakfast on Thursday, March 13, at Lipscomb University. The Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association was a proud attendee and sponsor of the event. Ryan King, TECA’s vice president of government affairs, served as this year’s chair for the Citizen’s Committee which presents the gathering each year.

“The prayers we pray today, the wisdom we share and the examples we set will help lay a foundation of faithfulness for the next generation to stand on,” King shared as he welcomed everyone to the event. “My prayer today is that after we leave this breakfast, we will have a heightened vigilance toward pouring into those around us. I also pray that God’s will continues to be done in our great state.”

The breakfast brought together more than 1,000 government officials, business leaders and community members for a morning of worship through music, a short uplifting message and prayer for God’s grace on the state of Tennessee, its elected officials and its citizens.

“As firm believers in the power of prayer, we know that this breakfast has had a profound impact on our state, and we look forward to the days ahead with great hope and trust in the Lord,” Gov. Bill Lee said at the event.

Along with Gov. Lee, Lt. Gov. Randy McNally, Speaker of the House Cameron Sexton, Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson, Senate Minority Leader Raumesh Akbari, House Majority Leader William Lamberth and House Minority Leader Karen Camper led prayer and scripture readings at the event. Others in attendance enjoyed and participated in worship with The Belonging Co., a local Nashville based church, and Danny Gokey, a multi-Grammy nominee and Dove Award winner.

The keynote address was given by James “Coach Ballgame” Lowe, a four-year starter and All Ivy League outfielder at Brown University who is now the lead ambassador for Play Ball at MLB. He shared about the people who invested in him along the way and how the audience can do the same in the future of Tennessee.

“This annual event, which is a longstanding tradition in Tennessee, continues to serve as a bipartisan moment for reflection and unity among the state’s leaders and citizens,” King said.

/by
, , ,

Young leaders learn more about leadership and Tennessee government during co-op event

NASHVILLE – 46 high school juniors from across the state were in Nashville this week for the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association’s annual Youth Leadership Summit. Attendees spent three days networking and gaining leadership, government and cooperative knowledge and skills.  

“The opportunities this trip gave me are ones I’ll never forget,” said Katie Timbs, a junior at Johnson County High School and a YLS delegate from Mountain Electric Cooperative. “I made lifetime friends and learned extremely important lessons. I am forever grateful to TECA for that.” 

During their stay in Nashville, the delegates participated in leadership development activities as well as learned more about what an electric cooperative is and does for a community with expert Amy Gallimore.  

Attendees visited the YMCA Outdoor Center at Camp Widjiwagan for team building and scavenger hunt exercises. While there, they also were able to be a part of electric safety demonstrations with a representative from Tennessee Job Training and Safety. 

Discussions were held over how to meet and greet your state representatives, too. The delegates had the opportunity to put those skills into action at the Tennessee State Capitol with their own representatives and Secretary of State Tre Hargett. While there, students had the chance to meet Gov. Bill Lee. 

“At TECA, we’re all about investing in the future,” said BJ Bernard, TECA’s vice president of member services. “With the Youth Leadership Summit, we want to make a real difference in these young people’s lives, whether that’s socially or just by teaching them how a cooperative works. We hope to be a steppingstone on their path to becoming the next generation of leaders in their communities.” 

The delegates also experienced some Nashville classics like the Goo Goo Cluster Store, the Country Music Hall of Fame and attended an Andy Grammer concert at The Ryman. 

/by
, , ,

Partin ascends to President of NRECA

Partin becomes the first Tennessean in 30 years to hold the office of NRECA board president

Today, during the closing session of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s PowerXchange meeting in Atlanta, Mike Partin, president and CEO of Sequachee Valley Electric Cooperative in South Pittsburg, received the gavel to began his two-year term as the President of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association board of directors.

“We couldn’t be more proud of Mike,” Michael Jordan, SVEC board chairman, said. “His dedication to not only the members of Sequachee Valley Electric Cooperative but those across the nation is inspiring.”

“I am honored to have been elected by my peers to serve as the President,” Partin said. “This is an exciting time for electric cooperatives as we seek innovative ways to meet surging electricity demand and deliver reliable and affordable power to our communities.”

As president, Partin will travel around the country to different statewide organizations to discuss the agenda America’s electric cooperatives have in store, but most importantly, he will be listening to what members, policy makers and stakeholders have to say. “I want to listen to what the folks are saying, because the issues in Idaho are not the same issues that members have in Georgia,” Partin says. “It’s not a cookie-cutter approach for us, with 900 members around the country. Part of what my mission will be is to listen with understanding to the members that depend on us and try to give them the help and the information they need from the national association.”

TECA joined TVA, TVPPA, Quanta, United Utility Supply and Vantage Point to host a reception in Partin’s honor during this week’s PowerXchange.

“Mike Partin is a dedicated leader who has consistently demonstrated his commitment to electric cooperatives and the communities they serve,” said Mike Knotts, CEO, Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association. “His election as NRECA board president is a testament to his vision, expertise, and unwavering advocacy for co-ops across the country. As the first Tennessean to hold this position in 30 years, he will represent our state and our members with excellence. We are proud of Mike and look forward to his leadership on the national stage.”

/by
, , ,

People Behind the Power – Meet Mitzie Privitt

Tennessee electric cooperatives power the state. Co-ops provide for three million Tennesseans -that’s 72% of the state’s landmass and 41% of the state’s population. That power wouldn’t be possible though without the employees, lineworkers and board members across the 23 cooperatives. Mitzie Privitt is one of the people behind that power.

Privitt is a native of Trenton but has resided in Humboldt for over 30 years. She is the newly named field staking and compliance engineer for Gibson Electric Membership Corporation. Even though she is new to this role, she has had a hand in the utility world for almost three decades. She started out with Humboldt Utilities working in accounting and payroll. In 2007, she made the switch to GEMC and became a dispatcher.

“I instantly fell in love with the whole operation side of the utilities,” Privitt said. “I took it to heart that it was my job to take care of my guys out there, ensuring I had caution orders done correctly and to promptly let them know if something didn’t look right on the system. That way they would be in their safest space to do their work, and I wanted them to have the confidence in me to know that I had their back.”

Privitt felt like in this position she gained a better understanding of how electricity worked, from how its generated to how it goes to homes. In 2018, she took on a new role during the cooperative’s fiber buildout as a GIS fiber mapping techinician. Privitt was able to work hands on with mapping out the build for six years. This year she was promoted to field staking and compliance engineer and is excited to continue her work at the co-op with both electricity and fiber, but most importantly the members.

“Watching our system grow and seeing our customers have things that truly work, everything from reliable electricity to affordable and fast internet,” Privitt said. “Knowing that if you’ve got problems, you can call, get a local person and feel confident that we’re going to fix it.”

Aside from her work at the co-op, Privitt has been married for 28 years, and they together have two children and two grandsons. The family works together at the Humboldt Area Rescue Squad. Privitt’s husband started the all-volunteer squad in 1989. Privitt herself is not a first responder, but she has found a way to still serve.

“I work fundraisers so that they can continue to focus on saving very precious lives,” Privitt said.

On top of her community service and before Privitt made her way to the utility business, she was the official float builder for the West Tennessee Strawberry Festival. At just 22 years old, Privitt was putting her art background to use and making extravagant and beautiful visions come to life for the community’s biggest event. She estimates that she has likely built well over 700 floats in her lifetime so far, with 25 or so coming from her house every year.

Over the years, Privitt has continued being involved with the festival. Last year she served as the general chairman for the event. This year, Privitt is the president of the West Tennessee Strawberry Festival where she oversees little details like the trash cans to scheduling out the big concerts at the event.

“It’s my year to kind of make the final decisions on what we do, what we don’t do, things we love, things we might need to cut back on,” Privitt said.

The West Tennessee Strawberry Festival is an 87-year-old tradition that takes place during the first full week of May. This year from May 4-10, 75,000 friends and neighbors will occupy nine blocks for food, fellowship and entertainment. 36 events will take place over the seven days and there is a committee made up of volunteers for each event. Through her time as general chairman and seeing behind the scenes of the festival, Privitt soon learned how much the community did to make this event a success.

“I just saw the value and number of volunteers that do such good community service through the strawberry festival, and I wanted to recognize that,” Privitt said. “That’s why I chose the theme ‘It’s a Berry Good Life: When our community unites, celebration ignites.”

Rather it be at Gibson Electric, her service through the rescue squad or even spearheading Tennessee’s largest and longest running festival – Privitt loves what she does and considers herself blessed to be able to do it all.

“I just love the fact that I get to be surrounded by so many giving people that just have a servant’s heart,” Privitt said. “It makes me want to be a part of their world and I work every day to do so.”

/by
, , ,

Unveiling the newly designed The Tennessee Magazine

This month marks the first edition of the newly designed The Tennessee Magazine. After more than a decade with the same look, the communications team at the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association has chosen to do a redesign of the beloved publication. Almost a year’s worth of thought, planning and research from a small team of writers, editors and designers has led to an incredible design.

“Our last design served us well for more than 12 years, but it’s time for a refresh,” says Chris Kirk, editor of The Tennessee Magazine. “The magazine staff put in lots of extra work in the year-plus we’ve spent on this undertaking. Their input, ideas and perspectives were invaluable to the process.”

From scrutinizing fonts, to tweaking logos to examining column layouts to even strategizing what the magazine means to electric cooperatives and co-op members, no stone – or page that is – has been left unturned when it comes to this new design with the help of Delevante Creative. When the magazine arrives in your mailbox, you will notice the new The Tennessee Magazine logo right off the bat. When you turn the pages, you will instantly see the focus is on delivering a clean design that is easy to read and showcases the stunning photography that accompanies the articles.

“Most important though, the publication is still centered on the same philosophy: important news from your electric cooperative as well as all the really cool stuff that makes Tennessee a great place to live, work and play,” Kirk says. “I’m so proud of the finished product that we’re unveiling in the March issue.”

/by

TECA recommends two members for TVA’s board of directors

The Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association is recommending Chris Jones from Middle Tennessee Electric and Anthony Kimbrough from Duck River Electric Membership Corporation as nominees for the Tennessee Valley Authority’s Board of Directors. While the President of the United States is the one who appoints members to the board, a letter has been submitted to both Senator Marsha Blackburn and Senator Bill Hagerty for consideration.

“On behalf of 25 private sector, not-for-profit, local utilities who collectively purchase over $3 billion worth of electricity from TVA each year, we ask for your assistance in guiding the Administration’s appointments to ensure only highly qualified individuals of great business judgment and long and valuable experience are nominated to these positions,” said Mike Knotts, TECA’s CEO, in the letter.

TVA currently has three vacant positions, and the term of a fourth member is soon to expire on their board of directors. At a minimum, President Donald Trump will have the opportunity to appoint four new members this year that will have to be confirmed by the Senate.

“The TVA Board plays an essential role for the region’s economic vitality. By setting policy and ensuring adherence to its statutory mission, the Board is ultimately responsible for TVA’s successes or failures,” Knotts said.

Alongside the nominations, the letter also lays out three important points for the senators’ consideration when making the recommendations. Those include career experience, industry expertise and the governance structure of a cooperatively owned generation and transmission utility.

As any developments arise, TECA will keep you updated on this important matter.

More about Chris Jones:

Chris Jones is Middle Tennessee Electric’s President, and just the fifth CEO in the cooperative’s 89-year history. A 26-year veteran of MTE, he is a graduate of the University of Tennessee, where he earned his degree in communications. He is responsible for stewarding one of the largest electric cooperatives in America – ranked first in the U.S. by energy sales, and second in the U.S. by number of members – and is the primary provider of critical energy infrastructure in Cannon, Rutherford, Williamson, and Wilson counties. Chris serves MTE members, and the community in general, through several avenues. He is a board member of United Communications and the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association, past chair of both the Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce and the Williamson County Chamber of Commerce, chair of Destination Rutherford, and a board member of the Tennessee Chamber of Commerce. Chris served on the Tennessee Nuclear Energy Advisory Council as the state’s utilities representative; this council was created by Governor Bill Lee to position the state as a national leader for nuclear energy innovation and advancement. His contributions to the Council have contributed to policy improvements and multi-billion-dollar economic development investments, cementing Tennessee’s place as the premier location to locate Nuclear Industry-related businesses. Chris is a native of Manchester, TN and lives in Murfreesboro with his wife, Bonita, who is a retired teacher. They have two grown daughters, Cayln (pronounced Kay• lin) and Chrisln (pronounced Chris• lin).

More about Anthony Kimbrough:

Anthony Kimbrough is a popularly elected member of the DREMC Board of Directors, representing Zone 6. His district includes the cooperative’s service territory in Maury County, the fastest growing area in DREMC’s 16 county service territory. He began service on the DREMC board in 2011 and was elected chairman in 2023. Anthony is a multi-talented servant and leader with a unique history of political involvement, organizational communications, and executive leadership roles. He retired at the end of 2023 after a two-decade plus executive career with the Tennessee Farm Bureau organization, the last 11 years as Chief Executive Officer of Farm Bureau Health Plans (FBHP). He guided the company through tremendous industry challenges while maintaining consistent growth and helped forge an expanded company footprint into multiple states. Previous roles with FBHP included leadership roles in sales and marketing, as well as government relations. He began his Farm Bureau insurance career as a joint employee of FBHP and Farm Bureau Insurance, leading all government relations and political efforts on behalf of the two Farm Bureau-affiliated insurance companies. Prior to his 23-year career with Farm Bureau, Kimbrough spent six years in the administration of Governor Don Sundquist, handling all government relations and communications work for the Tennessee Department of Safety. His strong communications background includes a four-year stint as editor of The Daily Herald (1990-1994), in Columbia, TN. Prior to his time there, Kimbrough established and managed a Capitol News Bureau for Donrey Media newspapers in Little Rock, Ark., covering state politics for six daily newspapers. Anthony is a graduate of the University of Arkansas with a bachelor’s degree in mass communications. He and his wife of 35 years, Michele, have two daughters and three grandchildren. He has long been active in community and church-related activities, including previous board seats for Big Brothers/Big Sisters, American Heart Association, Columbia State Community College Foundation, Zion Christian Academy and other organizations.

/by
, ,

Lilly Lankford joins TECA team as finance specialist

Lilly Lankford

The Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association is pleased to announce the addition of Lilly Lankford to the finance and administration team as finance specialist. With a rural heritage and experience with office and payroll management, Lankford brings not only knowledge but excitement to the association.

Lankford grew up in Dickson County and is a graduate of Dickson County High School. She gained leadership and public speaking skills through her time serving as the Dickson County FFA president. Also during that time, Lankford built her work ethic as a part time animal health department sales associate at the local United Farm and Home Cooperative. For the past year, she has been working as front officer manager for the Beauford County Farm Bureau in South Carolina as her husband served in the military.

“We are delighted to welcome Lilly Lankford to our team,” said Kayla Gladden, director of finance and administration for TECA. “Lilly understands and appreciates co-ops and the rural way of life. Most importantly, though, she is eager to learn, engage and help carry out the essential functions that make this association the best it can be.”

In this new role, Lankford will manage incoming and outgoing financial transactions, ensure accuracy and maintain up to date records for TECA.

“I am excited to be starting my career at TECA,” Lankford said. “Cooperatives are such an important part of rural communities, just like the one I grew up in. I am happy to be working in support of something that makes such a better life for all Tennesseans.”

Lankford will graduate in December from Austin Peay State University with a bachelor’s degree in business administration and marketing. She and her husband, Thomas, make their home in Charlotte.

Electric cooperatives serve more than 3 million consumers and 72% of Tennessee. The Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association provides leadership, advocacy and support for Tennessee’s 23 electric cooperatives and publishes The Tennessee Magazine, the state’s most widely circulated monthly periodical. Visit tnelectric.org or tnmagazine.org to learn more.

/by