For a guy, who grew up in Mt. Pleasant with a love of the water, and who put himself through school by working on a charter boat, you’d assume I’d be most excited about more time to fish in retirement. Really, I’m most excited to devote more time to helping others. This may include the homeless and widows, but really it may be anything my Lord has in mind and lays on my heart.
It’s hard to put a bow on a 35-year career, especially when I can genuinely say I’ve enjoyed coming to work each day. First, I want to express my heartfelt thanks to those who have helped me throughout my time here at York Electric—my Lord and Savior, Jesus, my loving and supportive family, YEC employees and the great community we all share.
I’m grateful to the Board for believing in a 37-year-old employee. I recently reread an article covered by The Herald when I was appointed to be CEO in 2003, when we had only 18,500 members and $25 million in revenue. God and family were my top priorities, along with investing in our local economy and community. We’ve since grown to be the 5th largest cooperative in South Carolina with nearly 70,000 members and $140 million in revenue. Through this growth, my priorities listed then, which align with those at your co-op, remain true. Simply put, service above self. This mantra has allowed us to serve you—our members—well.
Speaking of changes, we might face obstacles in our future as a cooperative. Power costs continue to rise and the need for more electric generation is a challenge. Those who remember when we first cut the lights on are no longer here to advocate for the cooperative way. Only by working together and protecting the cooperative business model and each other will we be able to continue to serve members with excellence, take care of our employees the way we have for 83 years and maintain our excellent cooperative reputation.
Our employees exemplify this teamwork every day. I am profoundly grateful for their grace, for the countless lessons I’ve gleaned from so many and for the privilege of serving alongside them throughout my career. It’s through their unwavering dedication and passion, both for our members and for one another, that we’ve earned the reputation of being the best co-op, not just in our state, but I would say in the entire country.
As Craig Spencer assumes the responsibility of President and CEO of YEC, I know your co-op is in good hands, where reliable and safe service, reasonable rates and a members-first mentality will be carried on.
It has been an absolute honor. It’s not goodbye. You’ll see me around.
President and Chief Executive Office