News > Local Co-op Director Achieves National Credential

Local Co-op Director Achieves National Credential

November 21, 2023

Michael Cramer, Stearns Electric Association Board of Director, received the Board Leadership Certificate from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) in November.

An ever-changing business environment has imposed new demands on electric cooperative directors, requiring increased knowledge of changes in the electric utility industry, new governance skills and a solid knowledge of the cooperative principles and business model. Stearns Electric has committed to work through NRECA to sharpen this body of knowledge for the benefit of its electric cooperative member-consumers.

The NRECA Board Leadership Certificate (BLC) recognizes individuals who continue their professional development after becoming a Credentialed Cooperative Director (CCD). Directors who attain the BLC have completed 10 credits in advanced, issues-oriented courses.

Cramer was elected to the Cooperative’s Board in 2021 to represent District 3, which serves the Minnesota townships of Waite Park, St. Cloud, St. Augusta, Lynden and Fairhaven in Stearns County. He currently serves as the Board Secretary/Treasurer.

“Stearns Electric is committed to providing training and education for both our employees and our Board of Directors,” Stearns Electric CEO Matt O’Shea said. “The education that our directors obtain through NRECA’s training and education program provides a solid foundation of knowledge of the energy industry for our directors, and allows them to better serve our members and lead the Cooperative.”

All current Stearns Electric Association Board members have either completed or are working on completing their CCD certificate through NRECA.

NRECA represents the nation’s almost 900 private, consumer-owned electric cooperatives, which provide electric service to more than 42 million people in 48 states, including Melrose-based Stearns Electric Association.