Central Electric Cooperative’s Board of Directors has announced that current Information Technology (IT) Systems Manager Ryan Mueller will assume the role of general manager on July 1, 2026.
For 10 years, Mueller has led the cooperative’s technology operations, data governance and cybersecurity efforts. He holds bachelor’s degrees in Business Administration and Marketing with a minor in Computer Information Systems from Dakota State University.
Outside of work, Mueller is active with the Knights of Columbus and volunteers as a youth sports coach, among other community activities. He is originally from Crofton, Nebraska. He and his wife, Kelli, who works for Dakota Wesleyan University, are raising four kids and have lived in the Mitchell area for 13 years.
“With technology playing an ever-increasing role in the utility industry, Ryan’s IT and business expertise position him well to serve as general manager,” said Central Electric Board President Duane Wolbrink. “He brings a strong work ethic and a high level of integrity. The board looks forward to working with Ryan and is excited for the leadership he will provide.”
Mueller will take the reins from current General Manager Ken Schlimgen, who is retiring after 41 years of service to the cooperative, including 11 years as general manager. Schlimgen and Mueller will work side by side over the next two months to ensure business continuity during the management transition.
“I am humbled by the opportunity to serve member-owners as their general manager,” Mueller said. “Central Electric has a strong foundation, and I look forward to working with our employees and board members to build on that success.”
Central Electric Cooperative is a Touchstone Energy Cooperative serving 5,000 members in Aurora, Brule, Buffalo, Davison, Hanson, Jerauld, Miner and Sanborn counties in South Dakota.