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With decades of utility industry experience, our team of managers works together with a core set of values to drive culture and purpose within our cooperative. The goal is simple, provide our talented employees with the tools and resources needed to serve our members with the first-class service they deserve all while providing safe, reliable, and affordable power.
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Chris Parr
CEO
Chris Parr boasts over 20 years in the utility industry, showcasing expertise across financial management, human resources, operations, and more. Holding a bachelor’s in financial management from Kansas State University and an MBA from Baker University, Chris's journey spans investor-owned, municipal, and cooperative utilities. Certified as a CIA and CRMA by the Institute of Internal Auditors, he upholds high standards of accountability and risk management. At FreeState, Chris ascended from Assistant General Manager to CEO, orchestrating strategic initiatives that positioned the cooperative as a reliable leader serving nine counties in Northeast counties.
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Ryan Coates
Inventory & Purchasing Manager
With a background in electric distribution material sales, Ryan excels as the Procurement and Inventory Manager at FreeState. Leveraging industry expertise, he ensures seamless supply chains, optimizing procurement and inventory for operational efficiency. Ryan's commitment to quality materials at competitive prices drives the cooperative's reliability and sustainability.
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Brent Edgecomb
Chief Information Officer
Bringing 20 years of information technology experience and seven years of energy tech expertise, Brent leads tech strategy at FreeState. With a bachelor's degree in management information systems, he drives digital innovation, ensuring operational efficiency, mission-critical business continuity, and cybersecurity preparedness. Brent's vision propels the cooperative towards a tech-savvy, resilient future, delivering reliable services while staying at the forefront of industry advancements.
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Michelle Meyer
Accounting Manager
With 27 years at the electric cooperative, Michelle embodies financial expertise and leadership. Steering the cooperative's financial strategies, she ensures precise oversight and compliance. Michelle excels as the cooperative's Accounting Manager, leveraging expertise from an associate’s degree in accounting from Highland Community College. Her adeptness with technology drives efficiency gains and enhances financial reporting accuracy, contributing significantly to the cooperative's success.
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Zach Sterling
Chief Operations Officer
With 27 years of hands-on experience within the electric cooperative, Zach Sterling climbed the ranks from Apprentice Lineman to Line Superintendent and Operations Manager. Now, as the Chief Operations Officer, he brings unparalleled insight into every facet of the cooperative's operations. Zach's journey from the frontline to leadership embodies dedication, expertise, and a commitment to excellence, ensuring seamless services for members.
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Jill Taggart
Chief Financial Officer
With 20 years of energy sector financial management experience, Jill leads financial strategy at FreeState. Her budgeting, forecasting, and risk management expertise ensures the cooperative's fiscal health. Holding a bachelor’s degree in finance and marketing and an MBA from Washburn University, Jill combines astute financial acumen with a passion for community empowerment through reliable, affordable electricity. Active in community engagement, Jill champions responsible financial practices benefiting the cooperative and its members.
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Nolan Lewis
Safety Manager
From Apprentice Lineman to Journeyman Lineman, Nolan embodies a safety-centric ethos at the electric cooperative. Transitioning to Safety Manager, he champions a proactive safety culture, leveraging frontline experience to implement rigorous protocols and training initiatives. His unwavering commitment ensures every team member's well-being, emphasizing prevention and preparedness, making the workplace secure under his leadership.
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Jill Taggart
Communications Manager
With 15 years of extensive public relations expertise, Sarah brings a wealth of experience to the role of Communications Manager at FreeState. Armed with a bachelor of science degree in agriculture from Kansas State University and a bachelor of arts in Mass Media from Washburn University, Sarah combines industry knowledge with a deep understanding of effective communication strategies. Certified as a Cooperative Communicator, she employs strategic communication tactics to amplify the cooperative's narrative and engage stakeholders effectively. Sarah's commitment to fostering transparent and impactful communication channels underscores her dedication to serving the cooperative's members and advancing its mission.