By Ken Schlimgen
General Manager
After 41 years with Central Electric Cooperative, including the past 11 years as General Manager, this will be my final column. It is difficult to put into words what a privilege it has been to serve this cooperative and the employees and members who make it such a special organization. While it is not easy to step away, I look forward to spending more time with my wife, JoAnn, and our family as we begin this next chapter together.
I began my career at Central Electric as a Member Service Advisor. I became Manager of Member Services in 1990 and in 2015 had the honor of being named General Manager. Over those years, I have had the opportunity to build lasting relationships with many members and employees — relationships I will always value and remember.
From the beginning, my goal was simple: at the end of the day, to leave the cooperative stronger than I found it. When I became General Manager, I knew that can only happen by working together. With the support of our Board of Directors and the dedication of our employees, we focused on strategic planning, continuous improvement and setting meaningful goals for the future. Every step forward has been the result of teamwork and a shared commitment to serving our members well.
I am especially proud of the strong safety culture and reliability improvements we have achieved together. Central Electric has now gone nearly four years without a lost-time accident, and our electric service reliability is better than ever. Those accomplishments are a direct reflection of the professionalism, commitment, and teamwork of our employees and leadership.
Over the past 41 years, the electric cooperative industry has changed in ways we could hardly have imagined back in 1985. Technology, communications, safety standards and member expectations have all evolved dramatically. Yet, what matters most has not changed. The cooperative business model still stands on the principles of member ownership, local governance, service to community and a genuine commitment to providing safe, reliable electricity.
Our cooperative is fortunate to have a Board of Directors that understands and supports that mission. I have had the privilege of working alongside an exceptional group of employees whose dedication and work ethic continue to impress me every day. Whether during storms, outages, or the normal challenges of daily operations, they consistently put the needs of our members first. They are the reason this cooperative continues to succeed.
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to my wife, JoAnn. Your support, patience, and sacrifice over the years made this journey possible. You carried the responsibilities at home during the many evenings, weekends and nights I was away, and I will always be grateful for that love and support.
As I prepare to walk out the door one final time, I do so with sincere appreciation for our members, Board of Directors, coworkers, and family. Thank you for the trust, support, friendships, and memories that have meant so much to me throughout my career.
I leave knowing Central Electric Cooperative is in capable hands and well-positioned for the future. The cooperative spirit remains strong, and I am confident the best days are still ahead.
With deep gratitude and best wishes, I sign off one final time. Until we meet again, stay safe.