One of the core principles of electric cooperatives is Cooperation Among Cooperatives, and it’s a principle we don’t just talk about, we live.
Recently, as much of the United States braced for a forecasted and potentially devastating winter storm, our cooperative answered a mutual aid call from Rappahannock Electric Cooperative in Virginia. In preparation for the storm, we sent four two-man crews to assist with restoration efforts should conditions worsen.
Those crews included Bryan Imdieke, Dave Ethen, Jon Gummert, Justin Wilson, Karl Martinson, Luke Kasella, Marshall Michienzi, and Tyce Lee—employees who were ready to leave home, family, and familiar territory to help fellow cooperatives and the members they serve.
“As linemen, the hardest and most fulfilling part of our job is storm work,” said Luke Kasella. “We appreciate the opportunity to serve other co-ops’ members just as much as our own.”
Thankfully, the storm did not hit this area as hard as initially projected. While major restoration efforts were ultimately not needed, the response itself speaks volumes. Knowing that electric cooperatives across the country are willing and ready to support one another at a moment’s notice, underscores the strength of the cooperative network.
Mutual aid is about more than storm response; it’s about trust, preparation, and shared commitment. When one cooperative needs help, others step up. That’s the power of cooperation—and we’re proud to be part of it.