JCE Co-op recognized for outstanding workplace practices

Safety is paramount in the electric industry. To advance safety education and practices, lineworkers, supervisors and warehouse personnel from electric cooperatives across Illinois gathered in Springfield for the annual Safety and Energy Conference held Jan. 29-30. The event was hosted by the Association of Illinois Electric Cooperatives (AIEC).

The conference emphasized the importance of safety and leadership in the energy industry, providing participants with training and resources to ensure their well-being on the job. Sessions included discussions on active leadership, staying focused and safe practices in the workplace. 

During the conference, safety awards were presented to honor both individual and cooperative-wide commitments to fostering a safe work environment. Brandon Sebena, director of utility operations at JCE Co-op, received a 2024 Safety Leadership Award for his exemplary efforts.

The Safety Leadership Award acknowledges individuals who excel in promoting a culture of safety and demonstrate leadership beyond typical safety performance standards. Recipients are nominated by their peers, with nominations detailing the nominee’s impact on safety practices.

JCE Co-op was also recognized for its outstanding safety performance over the past year, receiving a 2024 award for Best Incident Rate. This award underscores a cooperative’s dedication to maintaining a safe working environment, exceeding industry safety expectations, and cultivating a proactive safety culture.
The Best Incident Rate Award recognizes the cooperatives with the lowest overall number of recordable workplace incidents, including minor injuries. It highlights a commitment to maintaining a consistently safe work environment for all employees.

As the electric industry continues to evolve, safety remains a top priority. It ensures that the workforce can continue to serve communities efficiently and without harm. The AIEC celebrates the electric cooperatives and individuals that prioritize safety, consistently demonstrate leadership in safe practices, and foster a strong safety culture.

_{Pictured from left to right: Payton LuGrain, broadband construction crew; Jason Broshous, broadband operations foreman; Alex Peebles, manager of safety and loss control; Brad Travis, line foreman.}