Attention NCE members! The date for our annual Member Appreciation Day is set. Join us on Sunday, June 22, at Cedar Point for a day of fun and thrills for the whole family.

Details on how to purchase tickets will be available in the April issue of Ohio Cooperative Living.

Exploring the cooperative model with Seneca CEO

North Central Electric Cooperative recently welcomed the Seneca County CEO Class of 2025 for an exclusive business visit that offered students a behind-the-scenes look at the cooperative's operations. The students, representing different area schools, toured the office, engaged with employees, and had the unique opportunity to meet with some of NCE's executive team.

During the visit, students learned about the cooperative business model, leadership strategies, and the importance of community-focused service. The NCE team also shared insights into their roles and answered students' questions about career paths, innovation, and member engagement. The experience provided an in-depth perspective on how NCE operates and reinforced the cooperative's commitment to fostering future leaders.

NCE employee graduates from leadership program

North Central Electric Cooperative’s Manager of Key Accounts and Economic Development Audrey Flood recently graduated from the Leadership Edge program, a statewide initiative designed to develop the next generation of electric cooperative leaders. Hosted by Ohio’s Electric Cooperatives, the one-year program included six courses, two assessments, and a capstone project, with a focus on coaching employees, managing conflict, adapting communication styles, navigating difficult conversations, and delivering results.

Flood’s dedication to professional growth aligns with NCE’s commitment to providing top-tier service to our members. By investing in leadership development, we ensure our team is equipped with the skills to serve our community effectively. Congratulations on this outstanding achievement!

Stay safe on ladders: Tips for your next home improvement project

March is Ladder Safety Month, and as the days get longer, many homeowners are tackling improvement projects that require a little extra reach. Whether you’re cleaning gutters, painting walls, or fixing a roof, safety should always come first when using a ladder. A simple slip or misstep can lead to serious injuries—but following these precautions can help keep you safe:

• Stay clear of power lines – Always look up before positioning your ladder. Maintain a safe distance from any overhead electrical wires around your home.
• Inspect before you climb – Check for any damage, loose parts, or defects before stepping onto the ladder. A broken rung or weak frame can lead to a dangerous fall.
• Set up on solid ground – Place your ladder on a flat, stable surface to prevent shifting or tipping. If necessary, use ladder levelers on uneven terrain.
• Face forward and maintain three points of contact – When climbing, always face the ladder and keep two hands and one foot (or two feet and one hand) in contact with the ladder at all times.
• Keep your hands free – Carry tools in a tool belt or use a bucket and pulley system to transport supplies. Holding items while climbing can throw off your balance.
• Follow weight and height guidelines – Each ladder has a weight limit and safe usage height. Exceeding these limits increases the risk of accidents.

A little caution goes a long way in preventing ladder-related injuries. Take the time to set up properly, follow best practices, and stay alert. Your safety is worth the extra effort!

A look inside this month's Ohio Cooperative Living

The March issue of Ohio Cooperative Living is now available online! NCE-specific information begins on page 17, and highlights include:

• Key Co-op Topics with Ed: Building a stronger community with safety, reliability, and affordability
• Kilo-whatt?? Understanding kilowatt-hours and their impact on your electric bill
• Live line demonstrations - Sparking safety knowledge
• Electric cooperatives bring unique value to their communities
• January board meeting highlights

Check out the digital issue here!