“Southwest is trying to be at the forefront of bringing internet service to our area, and we’ve also helped different communities and co-ops get involved in this process.  We’re working with other co-ops and municipals in the area that already have internet service and have been building a big loop area so that if one part of it goes down, not all of it goes down, so we’re able to support them and keep the internet accessible to our members. We’ve also been working with Seven States on installing EV chargers at various points across our service territory. We’re really excited about the work that’s being done.”

“We have a ‘round-up’ program that allows our members to choose to round up their electric bill total if they’d like to donate, and in the last four years, we’ve given $1 million back into the community—all because our members rounded up their bills. It really makes a difference to local food banks and other programs. It’s overseen by a board that is made up of our membership. People can apply for grants and then the membership decides how to distribute the funds. The management of Southwest Electric supports them, but it’s all the membership’s decisions.”

“Take everything one step at a time. When you’re a new manager, you’re assaulted by everything. What helped me the most was having a great team on board.  There’s no way I can do everything—I have to have some good people. And I’ve got some doggone good people by my side. If you try and tackle everything, it’ll run over you, so lean on your team and take it one day at a time.”