Onward to Opportunity
I’m much more comfortable leading from the front, rather than running to catch up from behind. In the utility business, staying ahead means being prepared for whatever comes next. It means having the capacity, manpower, and equipment already in place before the demand for more ever arrives.
Building integrity and resilience into our plant, equipment, and personnel doesn’t just make today better; it literally ensures a brighter future.
However, sometimes circumstances have a way of dictating how and when a reaction occurs. I will remember the year 2025 as a year of running. Running to repair. Running to restore and running to react. June 16, 2025, brought an early summer hailstorm that toppled transmission poles, smashed security lights, and destroyed meters.
Not long after recovering from that event, August 7, 2025, brought more of the same, with damage once again to transmission and distribution alike. The year ended with a wild wind event that put 40 poles on the ground and a full 2-day all-hands-on-deck scramble.
The good news is that we were up to the task on each occasion. Our employees didn’t just step up and work; they exceeded expectations, put our members first, and met each challenge with impressive determination.
The positive news is that we had the equipment, technology, and personnel already in place to manage these events. From that standpoint, leading from the front or staying ahead paid dividends for Yellowstone Valley Electric Cooperative (YVEC).
It’s humbling to watch this team brave all conditions and work together to provide great service to our members.
2026 is primed with promise. We will assume our customary position of being out front. I believe we will see a year of great growth, coupled with preparing for the future. Onward to Opportunity!
Brandon J. Wittman
Chief Executive Officer