Jarrod Brackett is no stranger to technological advancements in our industry.  Serving Fort Loudoun Electric Cooperative (FLEC) as General Manager and CEO has given him an opportunity to see his team put their technical experience to work for his members.

“Broadband improvements/access and electric vehicle charging sites would top the list of most needed technology developments at Fort Loudoun Electric Cooperative in the future.  FLEC strives to help our members evolve and embrace technological advancements to improve their lives.  FLEC has about 140 miles of fiber optics that we utilize to offer middle mile and dark fiber opportunities.  Some internet providers even use the FLEC network to interconnect their resources, often allowing them to get to a local business.  The middle-mile network that Seven States is working toward could be a way to further enhance the established FLEC fiber network in the future. The interest in more EV charging sites has arisen from local businesses in our mostly rural area too.”

Jarrod credits Seven States as being a valuable partner for FLEC as the needs of its members continue to evolve.

“Earlier this year, we purchased some EV chargers through Seven States to provide some public access EV charging in the City of Madisonville and Tellico Plains.  These municipalities and the Monroe County government have told us that these chargers are being utilized to promote local economic development. We’re grateful for Seven States’ help in meeting this need.”

With all the changes taking place in his LPC footprint, Jarrod wants his members to know that their comfort and security are at the forefront of every decision he makes.

“We often embrace technology to help us make the products we provide safer, more reliable, more dependable, and ultimately, more secure.  Through our use of technology (like SCADA, AMI, and general automation of our grid’s control devices) and the establishment of clearer plans and pathways/access, those we serve today have more opportunities to connect to the modern world than ever before.  Automation and monitoring equipment/services are allowing us to keep those we serve safe and secure as they enjoy the perks of our ever-evolving world.”

With the rapid advancement of innovation in our industry, Jarrod’s advice to future leaders who want to lead well is to lean into their team’s abilities.

“Spend some time looking around and listening to those you work with and serve before you decide upon a pathway forward.  Sometimes those around you have already made investments and plans toward how they will innovate, and together we have the power and opportunities to enact monumental change.”

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