Leading With Purpose in a Cooperative World | #28

What does leadership look like when your mission is service, not profit? In this episode of SMECO Connects, host Sonja Cox and co-host Tom Dennison dive deep into the unique culture of a member-owned electric cooperative. Sonja shares her journey from working in an investor-owned utility to leading SMECO as CEO, highlighting how accountability, community focus, and a people-first culture set co-ops apart. Key themes include: The difference between cooperatives and investor-owned utilities Building trust and open-door leadership How culture, mentorship, and training empower employees Preparing for a future shaped by technology and AI This is a powerful conversation on leadership, community, and what it means to create a culture where employees and members thrive. Connect with SMECO: 📸 Instagram: @somdelectric 𝕏 Twitter: @somdelectric