Statewide conference provides valuable education for electric co-op directors

More than 140 directors from Iowa's locally owned electric co-ops attended the Iowa Association of Electric Cooperative's annual Directors' Update at the West Des Moines Marriott in early February.

IAEC Board President Steve Seidl explains, "We know that for directors to be most effective, they must be knowledgeable about the challenges and issues that could impact their electric cooperative. The local board guides the cooperative in providing electricity that is safe, affordable, reliable and sustainable in addition to playing a crucial role in determining the strategic direction and priorities of the co-op."

Education and training are especially important for newer directors as they must learn quickly about their roles and responsibilities and understand the challenges and issues unique to the electric industry.

Those who attended learned about cybersecurity challenges, received an update on the state’s rural economic development efforts, learned more about engaging effectively with co-op member-owners, received updates from legal counsel and IAEC regulatory and legislative affairs staff, and participated in a rate building workshop.

Directors also heard from a panel of their peers including Kyle Kelso of Clarke Electric Cooperative, Share Brandt of Butler County REC, and Marchelle Brown of Chariton Valley Electric Cooperative, who shared their thoughts on how to assist new cooperative board members.

Pictured: Teri Wallis engages the directors during the cooperative rate building session.

For More Information:

For more information, contact:

Erin Campbell
IAEC Director of Communications