Mackey, Smith complete Board Leadership Certificate

Northfork Electric Cooperative (NFEC) Directors Chris Mackey and Chad Smith were recognized at the November Board Meeting for completing the Board Leadership Certification from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA).

NRECA’s Director Certificate programs are specifically designed to help electric cooperative directors, at every stage of their service, understand their roles and responsibilities, stay up-to-date on the key issues and trends in the industry and prepare them to meet the challenges facing electric cooperatives now and in the future. 

Mackey and Smith have each previously completed the Credentialed Cooperative Director (CCD) certification. The certification requires completion of five courses that focus on basic governance knowledge and the essential skills required of cooperative directors. The CCD prepares directors to fulfill their fiduciary duty as elected officials serving on behalf of their membership.

The Board Leadership Certificate, the second part of the director education program, consists of a series of courses focusing in greater depth on specific industry and governance issues. These include risk management, power supply, parliamentary procedure, technology and policy development.

Chris Mackey has represented District 6 on the NFEC Board of Trustees since 1988.  Chad Smith has represented District 2 since 2022. 

NFEC General Manager Brent Meador said, “The time commitment spent to earn these credentials speaks volumes about our Board of Trustees’ dedication to serving our Cooperative. As entrusted elected officials, as well as being co-op members themselves, they understand the value of this kind of education and how it contributes to acting in the best interest of their fellow members. We couldn’t be prouder of their achievement and continuing service to our cooperative.”