Paulding Putnam Electric Cooperative has experienced remarkable growth in 2024, positioning itself for a stronger future as it prepares for the multi-year deployment of high-speed fiber internet service in late 2025. This growth has been driven y a dedicated investment in leadership, local workforce development, and member-focused initiatives that improve quality of life. 

"In 2024, we've laid the groundwork for an exciting future," said PPEC President and CEO Randy Price. " From recruiting and promoting top local talent to refining our culture and services, we are laser-focused on delivering value to our members. A s we prepare to provide high-speed internet alongside electricity, we must prioritized that our cooperative has the right local people and tools in place to make this additional service seamless and impactful."

Key Staff Changes

Promotions: 

• Nick Eltzroth (Fort Wayne, IN): Promoted to Chief Operating Officer.
• Stacy Morrison (Defiance, OH): Promoted to Director of HR and Administration.
• Rob Weisenburger (Oakwood, OH): Promoted to Engineering Supervisor.
• John McMaster (Paulding, OH): Promoted to Line Supervisor

New Hires

• Renee Hull (Cecil, OH): Chief Financial Officer, 
• Chris (C.J.) Gaskill (Defiance, OH): Broadband OSP Manager
• Jeff Noggle (Fort Wayne, IN): GIS Technician.
• David Taylor (Hicksville, OH): Apprentice Lineman.
• Austin Wisner (Cloverdale, OH): Lineman.

Position Changes:

• Zak Kauser (Paulding, OH): Took on the role of Staking Technician and is completing additional training.
• Barb Rife (Paulding, OH): Transitioned to Engineering and Operations Coordinator.
• Adam Drummelsmith (Leipsic, OH) and Mike Taylor (Paulding, OH): Graduated from the Central Ohio Lineworker Training program, becoming journeyman linemen. This hands-on coursework took four years to complete with on-the-job training.
• Josh Smith (Antwerp, OH): Assumed the role of Warehouse Coordinator, assisting with inventory management.
• Peter Niagu (Payne, OH): Transitioned to Business Development & Key Accounts Coordinator, managing economic development, renewable energy, and energy advising. Niagu recently earned his Certificed Key Account Executive certification. 
• Jamie Mericle (Paulding, OH): Added accounts payable duties to her role, which also includes member service. Mericle won the Q2 Rockstar Employee Award. 
• Maddy Lamb (Van Wert, OH): Transitioned from part-time to full-time Marketing Specialist, expanding her duties to include youth programs and cross-training. 

Preparing for the Future

PPEC is not only focused on today's needs but also actively investing in a future that will benefit the next generation. The upcoming launch of high-speed internet will bring transformative benefits to the region. 

"High-speed internet is not just a convenience; it's a necessity for education, work, and quality of life," Price said. " We are preparing to ensure every member has access to reliable service that meets their needs."