Vol75-04 April 2025

SMECO Board members earn NRECA certification

Congratulations to Directors Charles Bowling Jr., David Cross Jr., and Edward Holland who recently earned their National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) Credentialed Cooperative Director (CCD) certificates. This achievement reflects their dedication to serving our community and helping guide SMECO into a bright future.

SMECO’s Board of Directors is comprised exclusively of SMECO members who live and work in Southern Maryland. The group represents a variety of industries and backgrounds, but they all bring with them the knowledge, talent, and experience that helps shape and guide the direction of the cooperative.

Our members are best served by a Board that is properly educated, trained, and informed about current issues and standards for electric providers and cooperatives. Directors may not come into their Board position with a vast understanding of SMECO or the electric industry, but from day one, they invest time and energy into deepening their knowledge of the electric industry, cooperatives, and SMECO. This includes Director certification through the NRECA.

The CCD certificate is the first of a three-part progressive certification process. It is a foundational program covering essential governance knowledge and skills.

SMECO is one of about 900 electric cooperatives nationwide that benefit from their membership with the NRECA. This organization offers invaluable training that helps our board members hone their skills on a wide variety of important topics including fiduciary responsibilities, strategic planning, financial oversight, regulatory compliance, and the latest industry trends.

By completing this training, our directors are prepared to make well-informed decisions, safeguard the cooperative’s financial health, and navigate the ever-changing energy landscape. Their commitment to learning and growth ensure that SMECO can continue to thrive and serve our community.