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SECO Energy District 6 Trustee Mike Muffett to Continue Board Service

SECO Energy’s District 6 members have re-elected Trustee Mike Muffett without opposition, to continue serving on SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees. Mr. Muffett will serve a new three-year term following the election held on February 3 at Village View Community Church, which was well attended by District 6 members.  

 

SECO Energy is a not-for-profit electric cooperative owned by and operated for more than 265,000 Central Florida members. The Cooperative is geographically divided into nine Districts, each represented by a Trustee who serves on the SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees. The nine-member Board meets monthly to make decisions in the best interests of the membership. As SECO’s governing body, the board plays a pivotal role in shaping the cooperative’s present and future.   

 

In accordance with SECO’s bylaws and Florida statute, the cooperative conducts in-person district meetings and elections. The District 6 meeting saw a strong attendance, with members actively engaged throughout the Member Engagement Panel discussion, sharing thoughtful questions, feedback and perspectives on cooperative operations and priorities. Mr. Muffett was the sole candidate for the District 6 Trustee position and received strong support from members for his continued service. 

 

A SECO Energy member since 1984, Mr. Muffett was first elected as District 6 Trustee in 2020. He has earned a Credentialed Cooperative Director (CCD) Certificate and a Director Gold Credential (DGC) from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA).  

 

“I’m extremely grateful for the strong turnout and active participation from the District 6 members,” said Trustee Muffett. “After six years of serving on SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees, I remain fully committed to helping this community and working alongside the rest of the Board, ensuring our members get the best energy services possible.” 

 

Gerald Anderson, President of the Board of Trustees, praised the level of member involvement. “Thank you to our District 6 members for your attendance, questions and meaningful discussion,” stated Anderson. Congratulations, Trustee Muffett, on your re-election as District 6 Trustee. The Board looks forward to our continued work together.”  

 

SECO Energy CEO Curtis Wynn also acknowledged the District 6 members and their strong turnout and engagement. “The high level of participation we saw during the Member Engagement Panel demonstrates how invested our members are in their cooperative,” Wynn said.  “Thank you to our District 6 members for attending, asking questions and sharing feedback. This level of engagement strengthens our cooperative and helps guide our decisions.”  

Wynn continued to say, “Congratulations to Trustee Muffett on continuing to represent his fellow members. The trust and support shown by District 6 were evident throughout the meeting. The Executive Leadership Team looks forward to continuing our work with Trustee Muffett and the entire Board as we drive SECO Energy’s success and support the well-being of our members.”  

(Left to right) SECO Energy Board of Trustees President Gerald Anderson, District 6 Trustee Mike Muffett, and SECO CEO Curtis Wynn at the District 6 Meeting on Tuesday night. 

Members ask insightful questions to SECO Energy’s Executive Leadership Team during the Member Engagement Panel segment at the District 6 Meeting.  

SECO Energy District 2 Members Re-Elect Trustee Joyce Anderson

SECO Energy members in District 2 have re-elected Secretary-Treasurer Joyce Anderson to the cooperative’s Board of Trustees for  a new three-year term. The District 2 election was held on January 29 at the Sumter County Fairgrounds Cow Palace.  

 

SECO Energy is a not-for-profit electric cooperative owned by and operated for more than 265,000 Central Florida members. The Cooperative is geographically divided into nine Districts, each represented by a Trustee who serves on the SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees. The nine-member Board meets monthly to make decisions in the best interests of the membership. As SECO’s governing body, the board plays a pivotal role in shaping the cooperative’s present and future. 

 

In accordance with SECO’s bylaws, the cooperative conducts in-person elections, as required by Florida statute. Trustee Joyce Anderson of Sumterville, John McCumber of The Villages, and Wayland Wagner also of The Villages were certified candidates who expressed their intent to seek election for the District 2 Trustee position. Trustee Anderson was elected by a majority vote. 

 

First elected in February 2020,  Anderson  has earned a Credentialed Cooperative Director (CCD) Certificate and Director Gold Credential (DGC) from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). She has been a SECO Energy member since 2017.  

 

“I’m honored to be re-elected to the SECO Board of Trustees and want to thank the members of District 2 for trusting me to represent them. I take this responsibility with great care,” Anderson said. “To grow with this cooperative is a privilege and I remain committed to making decisions that will benefit members in the long run alongside my fellow Trustees.” 

 

Gerald Anderson, President of the Board of Trustees, stated, “Thank you to the District 2 members who took part in the voting process. Congratulations to Trustee Anderson on her re-election as District 2 Trustee. The Board and I are  pleased with the outcome and look forward to continuing our work together.” 

 

During the district meeting, SECO Energy CEO Curtis Wynn provided members with an update on the cooperative and emphasized the importance of member participation in the democratic process. 

“We appreciate the strong turnout from District 2 members and thank everyone who participated, whether in person or through our drive-thru voting option,” Wynn said. “Members asked insightful questions during the panel discussion, and that engagement reflects the cooperative difference – ensuring our members have a voice in choosing their representatives and in the future of their cooperative.  Congratulations to Secretary-Treasurer Joyce Anderson on her re-election. We look forward to continuing our work  together to ensure SECO’s future success.” 

A member shares their questions with the Executive Leadership Team during the Member Engagement Panel segment at the District 2 Meeting.

A member shares their questions with the Executive Leadership Team during the Member Engagement Panel segment at the District 2 Meeting.  

SECO Energy Advises Members to Prepare for Weekend Cold Weather Event

SECO Energy is advising members across its service territory to prepare for an anticipated cold weather event expected to impact Central Florida this weekend. Forecasts indicate significantly cooler temperatures, which may lead local governments to activate shelters or warming centers for vulnerable residents. 

 

SECO Energy encourages members to take precautions to protect themselves, their families and their homes during cold conditions. Simple actions such as dressing in layers, checking on elderly neighbors and ensuring pets have adequate warmth can help keep everyone safe and comfortable. 

 

As temperatures drop, energy use naturally increases in many homes. SECO energy encourages members to practice everyday energy-smart habits that can help manage personal usage and potential bill impacts while maintaining comfort, such as adjusting thermostats efficiently and turning off unnecessary lights or electronics. These small steps can help conserve energy while keeping homes comfortable during colder weather. 

 

Members seeking information on shelters or warming centers should contact their local Emergency Operations Center (EOC) or county emergency management office. Information is available for residents in Levy, Marion, Hernando, Lake, Pasco, Sumter and Citrus counties through county EOCs and FloridaDisaster.org. 

 

SECO Energy will continue to monitor weather conditions and share updates as needed. Members are encouraged to stay informed through trusted weather sources and local emergency management agencies. 

 

For outage reporting and updates, members can visit StormCenter.

SECO Energy District 4 Trustee James LaMotte Re-elected Unopposed Following Highly Attended District Meeting

SECO Energy members in District 4 have re-elected Trustee James LaMotte without opposition to continue serving on SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees following a highly attended District 4 Meeting held January 27 at the Marion Oaks Community Center.  

 

Demonstrating strong engagement and support for their cooperative, more than 200 District 4 members and their families attended the meeting, making it one of the most well-attended District events. The impressive turnout underscored the importance members place on participation, transparency, and local representation within SECO Energy. 

 

SECO Energy is a not-for-profit electric cooperative owned and operated by more than 265,000 Central Florida members. The Cooperative is geographically divided into nine Districts, each represented by a Trustee who serves on the SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees. The nine-member Board meets monthly to make decisions in the best interests of the membership. As SECO’s governing body, the board plays a pivotal role in shaping the cooperative’s present and future. 

 

District Meetings are conducted in accordance with SECO Energy’s bylaws, and in-person elections are required by Florida statute. LaMotte was the sole candidate for District 4 Trustee position, reflecting strong member confidence in his leadership and service.  

 

James LaMotte was first elected as District 4 Trustee in April 2024, following a Special District Meeting. He has earned the Director Gold Credential from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA), the highest level of Trustee education. LaMotte has been a member of SECO Energy since 2018.  

 

“I am amazed and humbled by the number of District 4 members who attended our meeting,” said LaMotte. “Running is an honor, and I remain committed to working with my fellow Trustees to advance SECO Energy’s mission and long-term success.” 

 

Gerald Anderson, President of the Board of Trustees, emphasized the importance of member involvement. “Member participation is the foundation of the cooperative business model. We thank the District 4 members for their outstanding engagement, attendance, and community presence. Congratulations to Trustee LaMotte on his re-election. The Board looks forward to continuing our work together.”   

 

SECO Energy Chief Executive Officer Curtis Wynn also recognized District 4 members for their strong participation. “Looking out at this amazing crowd, I see member engagement with SECO Energy in action,” Wynn said. Thank you to our District 4 members for understanding the importance of attending your District Meeting and taking part in the cooperative process.”  

Wynn added, “I appreciate Trustee LaMotte for his dedication to representing his fellow members. It is clear that he has the confidence and support of his District and is representing District 4 extremely well. The Executive Leadership Team looks forward to continuing our collaborative work with Trustee LaMotte and the entire Board to ensure the very best for our members.” 

 

SECO Energy CEO Curtis Wynn addresses the District 4 crowd on Tuesday, January 27 

SECO Energy is a not-for-profit electric cooperative serving more than 250,000 homes and businesses across the Florida counties of Sumter, Citrus, Marion, Lake, Levy, Pasco, and Hernando. SECO is the seventh largest in the nation. SECO’s wholesale power provider is Seminole Electric, one of the nation’s largest generation and transmission cooperatives, serving nearly 2 million consumers in Florida. Seminole is owned by nine electric distribution cooperatives, and SECO is one of those nine member-owners.  

This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer. 

SECO Energy Deploys Crews to Assist with Winter Storm Restoration Efforts in South Carolina and Georgia

In response to a request from the Florida Electric Cooperatives Association (FECA), SECO Energy is deploying crews to assist with power restoration efforts in the northern regions of South Carolina and Georgia ahead of the anticipated impacts from Winter Storm Fern.

 

A SECO Energy crew of nine (9) employees departed SECO Energy headquarters today at 7:00 a.m. and is expected to arrive in South Carolina this evening. Upon arrival, the team will report to Laurens Electric Cooperative to begin preparations for restoration efforts as conditions allow.

 

Meteorologists predict that Winter Storm Fern will bring accumulating ice, snow, and significant tree-related damage beginning early Sunday morning. SECO Energy crews are prepared to assist with power restoration and infrastructure repairs once the storm has passed and conditions are safe.

 

“Mutual aid is a cornerstone of the electric cooperative network,” said Kathy Judkins, Vice President Communications, Community and Member Experience “We are proud to support our fellow cooperatives and the communities they serve during severe weather events.”

 

SECO Energy will continue to monitor storm conditions and coordinate closely with FECA and partner cooperatives throughout the response.

SECO Energy Announces 2026 Youth Scholarship Program

SECO Energy is proud to continue its long-standing commitment to education in the communities it serves through the 2026 Youth Scholarship Program. SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees has approved $48,000 in scholarships for 12 exceptional high school seniors who reside in SECO’s service territory. Each selected student will receive $4,000 to help fund their educational journey. 

 

SECO recognizes that investing in education is essential to developing a skilled workforce capable of meeting future challenges. As part of the not-for-profit electric cooperative’s commitment to providing safe and reliable electric service, the Youth Scholarship Program is designed to foster local talent, prepare students for future careers, and strengthen the pipeline of professionals who may one day join the SECO Energy team. 

 

SECO Energy’s CEO Curtis Wynn emphasized the importance of cultivating a skilled workforce within the cooperative’s service communities. “As the energy industry evolves, SECO Energy and other utilities are committed to attracting and developing individuals who can thrive in a dynamic environment,” Wynn stated. “SECO Energy’s Vision is to become the employer of choice in our region. The Youth Scholarship Program represents a direct investment in local students’ education, equipping them for successful careers in the energy sector. Our local communities are rich with talented students who will be essential assets to future employers and to the region as a whole.” 

 

Eligibility Criteria

  • Applicants must graduate from high school by the end of the 2025-2026 academic year (May/June) and enroll in a Florida-based college, university, or technical school by the end of the same year. 
  • Special emphasis will be given to students pursuing degrees in technology, business, engineering, or mathematics, especially those aligned with the energy sector. Relevant majors include computer science, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, chemical, nuclear, environmental, civil, agricultural/biological, industrial, materials science, and various mathematics disciplines. 
  • Applicants must reside in a household within SECO Energy’s service area or live with a parent or legal guardian who is an active SECO Energy member at the time of award. 

 

Evaluation Process

Applications will be evaluated based on financial need, academic achievement, community involvement, the quality of the personal statement or essay, and the relevance of the applicant’s chosen major to a STEM or energy-related career path. Evaluation decisions are final, and feedback or appeals cannot be provided.  

 

Application Details

The 2026 SECO Energy Youth Scholarship Program application is available online at SECOEnergy.com > Your Co-op > Youth Scholarship Program. Applications must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 27, 2026. For inquiries regarding SECO Energy’s Scholarship Program, please contact YouthPrograms@SECOEnergy.com.  

 

Curtis Wynn, SECO Energy CEO (far left) and Board of Trustee’s President Gerald Anderson (far right) posing with the 2025 SECO scholarship winners.   

SECO Energy Trustee Marty Proctor Earns Highest NRECA Accreditation

 

SECO Energy is proud to announce that Trustee Marty Proctor, who represents members in District 8, has earned the Director Gold Credential (DGC) from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). The Director Gold Credential represents the highest level of educational achievement available to electric cooperative Trustees. 

 

“I am extremely pleased to announce that Trustee Proctor has achieved the highest level of Trustee education from the NRECA – Gold Status. This is a significant accomplishment as he completed this advanced education within two years being elected to represent SECO Energy’s District 8 members,” stated SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees President and District 3 Trustee Gerald Anderson. “In this short time, Trustee Proctor has become a knowledgeable and active participant in Board governance – representing not only his District but all SECO members.”

 

“I would be remiss if I did not recognize that all nine SECO Energy Board of Trustees have earned the Gold-level education certificates,” added President Anderson. “Nationwide, SECO Energy is one of only fourteen out of more than 780 electric cooperatives to achieve the distinction of 100% Gold-level Board education.” 

 

The Director Gold Credential is awarded to Trustees who complete a rigorous series of advanced courses focused on cooperative governance, financial oversight, strategic planning, and emerging challenges within the energy industry. After earning the credential, trustees must continue participating in ongoing education to maintain their Director Gold status.  

 

“Trustee education is a key component to SECO Energy’s success,” stated SECO Energy CEO Curtis Wynn. “In a short amount of time, Mr. Proctor has proven to be a valuable member of SECO Energy’s Board and his commitment to our members is truly admirable. I look forward to continuing to work with SECO’s Board to ensure our success for years to come.” 

 

“Once again, congratulations to Trustee Proctor – and to our entire Board of Trustees – for this remarkable accomplishment. Every SECO Energy Trustee has now earned their Director Gold Credential,” added President Anderson. “This outstanding achievement reflects the Board’s strong commitment to leadership, governance excellence, and service to our members.”   

 

“I am extremely honored to serve as the District 8 Trustee on SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees and will continue to lead with purpose in the best interest of SECO members and the communities we serve,” said District 8 Trustee Marty Proctor. 

 

SECO Energy is a not-for-profit electric cooperative that is operated for and owned by the members it serves. SECO Energy’s 2,100-square-mile service area is divided into nine geographic Districts. Trustees are democratically elected by the members who reside in each District. As SECO Energy’s governing body, the Board of Trustees provides oversight and plays an essential role in policy-making decisions. To learn more about SECO Energy’s Board, visit SECOEnergy.com > Your Co-Op > Board of Trustees. 

 

SECO Energy’s Chief Executive Officer Curtis Wynn, District 8 Trustee Martin Proctor, Board of Trustees President Gerald Anderson 

SECO Energy is a not-for-profit electric cooperative serving more than 264,000 homes and businesses across the Florida counties of Sumter, Citrus, Marion, Lake, Levy, Pasco, and Hernando. SECO is the seventh largest in the nation. SECO’s wholesale power provider is Seminole Electric, one of the nation’s largest generation and transmission cooperatives, serving more than 2 million consumers in Florida. Seminole is owned by nine electric distribution cooperatives, and SECO is one of those nine member-owners. This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer. 

SECO Energy Spreads Holiday Cheer Alongside Toys for Tots

SECO Energy is proud to continue its longstanding tradition of supporting the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program.   

 

The Marine Corps Reserves’ purpose is to help bring Christmas joy and a message of hope to children across the United States through the gift of a new toy. Since 2001, the Toys for Tots program has consistently been recognized among the top charities by Philanthropy 400. 

 

Each year, starting in November, SECO Trustees, employees, and members drop off donations of new, unwrapped toys at SECO Member Service locations in Eustis, Groveland, Inverness, Ocala, and Sumterville.   

 

Founded nearly 90 years ago by members who banded together to bring electricity to rural areas of Central Florida, SECO’s cooperative spirit is reflected in the generosity of its employees, trustees and members. Their contributions to programs like Toys for Tots serve as a reminder of SECO’s original shared purpose: supporting and strengthening the communities we serve.     

 

“I’m always amazed by the kindness of our team, members, and Trustees,” said, Kathy Judkins, SECO Energy’s Vice President of Communications, Community and Member Experience. “Even a single toy can light up a child’s face and create memories that last a lifetime.”  

 

A highlight of SECO Energy’s annual participation is that donated toys remain in the local community, allowing members, employees, and Trustees to give directly to the neighborhoods where they live. 

 

“Giving back is in our DNA,” said Curtis Wynn, SECO’s Chief Executive Officer. “Our employees, members and Trustees know that every toy they donate creates a Christmas morning full of smiles right here at home. That’s the magic of community.”  

 

Retired Marines and other volunteers collect the donations in early December so that they can be distributed in time for the holidays. SECO looks forward to continuing its longstanding tradition with Toys for Tots and spreading Christmas cheer in the years to come.   

 

 

2025 Toys for Tots Photo Gallery:

Sumterville Corporate & Operations Division
Inverness Member Service Center
Ocala Member Service Center
Ocala Operations Division
Groveland Member Service Center
Groveland Operations Division
Ardice Member Service Center
Eustis Operations Division

 

SECO Energy Celebrates 500-Employee Milestone

SECO Energy’s Executive Leadership Team representing SECO Energy’s commitment to collaboration and innovation.
SECO Energy’s Executive Leadership Team representing SECO Energy’s commitment to collaboration and innovation.

SECO Energy is proud to announce it has reached a major milestone, recently welcoming its 500th employee—the largest workforce in the cooperative’s nearly 90-year history. This growth reflects SECO’s ongoing commitment to its employees, members and the communities it serves. SECO Energy’s vision is to lead the industry in member satisfaction and engagement and be the preferred employer in our region.

 

Founded in 1938, SECO Energy began as a small, rural cooperative that focused on bringing electricity to rural Central Florida. In November 1938, SECO turned the lights on to 400 rural farmsteads in Sumter County. Today, the cooperative serves over 260,000 homes and businesses, making it the seventh-largest electric cooperative in the nation. From its inception, SECO has been an economic driver and steadfast supporter of its local communities.

 

Over the last 15 years, SECO has added 100 employees to its overall headcount, and continues to grow ahead of its Workplace Expansion and Improvement Plan that will break ground in early 2026.

 

“Our 500 employees are dedicated to keeping our promise to members,” said Curtis Wynn, CEO. “Each team member plays a vital role in ensuring that every home and business receives safe, reliable, and affordable energy. This milestone reflects SECO’s continued investment in people and resources that directly benefit our members. As we expand our workforce, we enhance our ability to provide exceptional service, embrace innovation, and uphold the cooperative difference that sets SECO apart.”

 

SECO Energy is actively hiring multiple roles across departments. Click here to view the current job openings.

SECO Energy’s Youth Tour Leadership Program Now Open for Applications

2025 Youth Tour Delegates Jayley Lewis and Lilly Brogan
SECO Energy’s 2025 Washington, D.C. Youth Tour Delegates Jayley Lewis and Lillian Brogan

SECO Energy is now accepting applications for the 2026 Youth Tour leadership program, designed to inspire youth who are passionate about the energy industry, history, and leadership. 

 

This two-part experience offers 12 local high school juniors – who live in a home served by SECO Energy – the chance to attend the Tallahassee Youth Tour, an overnight learning opportunity from February 4-5, 2026. Participants will tour the Governor’s Mansion, the Florida State Capitol, and legislative chambers, while gaining insight into the legislative process and the Cooperative business model. SECO Energy will cover the cost of transportation, meals, and hotel accommodations.  

 

But that’s not all! After the Tallahassee Youth Tour, these 12 participants will have a second opportunity to compete for one of four exclusive spots to represent SECO Energy on a fully sponsored, once-in-a-lifetime trip to our nation’s capital to join the National Youth Tour hosted by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA).  

 

In June 2026, the four selected delegates will join their peers from across the country for a weeklong trip to Washington, D.C., where they will visit the U.S. Capitol, Arlington National Cemetery, and the Smithsonian Museums. They’ll meet elected officials, explore potential career paths, develop leadership skills through hands-on experiences and workshops, and deepen their understanding of electric cooperatives and how they support rural communities across America.  

 

Past delegates Lillian Brogan and Jayley Lewis, who participated in the 2025 program, reflected on their experiences:

 

“Having the opportunity to be a Youth Tour delegate was life changing. I learned so much not only about electric co-ops but about myself as well. I gained new friendships and the importance of community. Nothing is like the experience of learning how governance cooperation works and how it impacts the community,” said Lillian.

“Throughout the experience, I learned how to advocate for myself and my community with confidence by talking to Florida Representatives, lobbyists, and peers,” said Jayley. “The future of our nation lies in the present generation. We must seize every opportunity to learn, lead, and listen, all of which are emphasized in this program,” she added.

 

Youth Tour empowers students to make their mark through leadership, service, and transformative experiences. Whether their passion lies in the energy industry, politics, history, or simply seeking adventure, this program provides personal growth and professional development that prepares them for what’s ahead. 

 

Know a high school junior with leadership potential and big dreams?

Don’t let this opportunity pass them by. Encourage them to apply online today at SECOEnergy.com/youth-tour-application. Applications are open from October 1 to December 15, 2025.  Winners will be notified by December 31, 2025.