Service. Mission. Country. These three words describe our nation’s veterans, and they also succinctly describe a core co-op ethos. 

Veterans are innately motivated to serve, and in a similar vein, electric co-ops are guided by foundational principles that put their community first. Electric co-ops were founded to bring electricity to rural areas where there was none. In doing so, they powered local economies and helped them thrive. I believe this connection to an essential mission is why there are so many veterans in the utility industry and why they are generally such a great fit for electric co-ops. 

Today’s veterans are highly skilled, and many veterans are trained in disciplines such as engineering, electronics or mechanics — which are all beneficial to the utility industry. Miami-Cass REMC is proud to employ six veterans, and we’re grateful for their contributions to the co-op and to our community. 

Leadership and teambuilding skills

Our veteran colleagues joined the co-op equipped with training in leadership and teamwork. That’s because while on active duty, service members work closely together because they know their lives depend on each other’s actions. This fosters a high level of self-discipline, a sense of personal responsibility and a passion for excellence. 

The utility industry is increasingly complex and undergoing a transformation. While there are the traditional engineering and vegetation management aspects of the industry, it now also encompasses technology, cybersecurity and the electrification of the transportation sector and other areas of the economy. Veterans are adept at responding to changing conditions and learning new technologies, which is essential in our evolving industry. 

Mission-oriented outlook

May is Military Appreciation Month and at Miami-Cass we are grateful to have veterans within our ranks. But beyond our gratitude, we demonstrate our deep appreciation through our actions and ongoing commitment to veterans and their families. 

I hope you’ll join me in recognizing the sacrifices veterans have made to our great country –– and the many contributions they continue to make to our community. Veterans, we salute you!