Log in | Register |
StormCenter logo

Archive

Tag: CEO Curtis Wynn

SECO Energy Foundation Awards $25,000 Grant to Lake-Sumter State College Foundation to Support Lineworker Training Program

SECO Energy is proud to announce the award of a $25,000 grant from the SECO Energy Foundation to the Lake-Sumter State College Foundation. This grant will support lineworker training at Lake-Sumter State College (LSSC) helping strengthen workforce development efforts and prepare students for high-demand careers in the energy industry. 

 

The $25,000 grant will be used to directly support training resources and program enhancements that equip aspiring lineworkers with the technical skills, safety training, and hands-on experience needed to serve growing communities across Central Florida and beyond. As the demand for skilled utility professionals continues to rise, partnerships like the one between SECO and LSSC play a critical role in building a strong, reliable workforce. 

 

“Our partnership with Lake-Sumter State College represents an investment in people, opportunity, and the future of the energy industry,” said Curtis Wynn, Chief Executive Officer of SECO Energy. “Lineworkers are essential to our communities – they work every day to maintain safe and reliable electric service. Through this grant, we are helping to create pathways for students to enter a meaningful, well-paying career while ensuring our communities are served by highly trained professionals. We are proud to support a program that reflects our shared commitment to safety and community and workforce development.” 

 

John P. Temple, President of Lake-Sumter State College, emphasized the importance of collaboration between industry and education. “We are deeply grateful to the SECO Energy Foundation for this generous investment in our students and our lineworker training program,” said Temple. “This partnership ensures our graduates are prepared to meet the evolving needs of the energy sector. Together, we are creating life-changing opportunities for students while strengthening the infrastructure and economic vitality of the region.” 

 

The SECO Energy Foundation is dedicated to supporting initiatives that enhance education, community well-being, and workforce readiness. By investing in local training programs like LSSC’s lineworker program, the SECO Energy Foundation continues its mission of giving back to the communities and members it proudly serves. 

 

For more information about the SECO Energy Foundation and its community initiatives, visit SECOFoundation.org.  

 

From left to right: Curtis Wynn, Chief Executive Officer of SECO Energy; Joyce Anderson, Secretary-Treasurer of the SECO Energy Board of Trustees and District 2 Trustee; Matthew Roudabush, President of the SECO Energy Foundation Board of Directors; Mariah Delgado, Executive Director of the SECO Energy Foundation; John P. Temple, President of Lake-Sumter State College; and Dr. Laura Byrd, Senior Vice President of Institutional Advancement at Lake-Sumter State College.

SECO Energy Trustees Morgan Hatfield & Gerald Anderson Maintain Director Gold Credential

SECO Energy congratulates District 3 Trustee Gerald Anderson and District 9 Trustee Morgan Hatfield on maintaining their Director Gold Credential (DGC) from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees is one of the very few in the nation among electric cooperatives in which every Board member has earned the Director Gold Credential.  

  

According to the NRECA, The Director Gold credential recognizes directors committed to continuing their education beyond the Credentialed Cooperative Director (CCD) and Board Leadership Certificate (BLC). The DGC offers a continued education path for those who desire a tangible credential that demonstrates their ongoing commitment to advancing their knowledge and performing their fiduciary duty to the best of their ability.  

  

SECO Energy is a not-for-profit electric cooperative, operated for and owned by its members. SECO’s nine-member Board of Trustees consists of members who live in SECO’s service area. They are elected to oversee the governance of the cooperative. Each Trustee on the Board is elected by the members who reside in his/her District. Collectively, the Trustees are responsible for establishing, reviewing and revising corporate policies to ensure that SECO continues to preserve reliable, affordable service for all members.  

 

President Anderson lives in The Villages and has been a SECO member since 2013, he was first elected to the Board of Trustees in 2019. 

  

President Anderson stated, “I am proud to continue my Board education through the NRECA. I am honored by the trust that District 3 members have placed in me to represent them on SECO’s Board of Trustees. I look forward to SECO Energy’s continued success.”  

 

Vice President Hatfield lives in Umatilla and has been a SECO member since 2019, she was first elected to the Board of Trustees in 2021. 

  

Vice President Hatfield stated, “I am proud to serve as the District 9 Trustee and am extremely grateful for the trust that District 9 members have placed in me to represent them on the SECO Board of Trustees. Board education classes are essential to my Board service, and I am proud to continue my education through the NRECA.”  

  

CEO Curtis Wynn said, “Congratulations, President Anderson and Vice President Hatfield, on maintaining your Director Gold Credential, I am thankful for your desire to further your education and your willingness to serve as leaders on our Board for our members in Districts’ 3 and 9 and throughout our entire service region.”  

  

To view the SECO Board of Trustees and a map of their respective service territories, visit SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees page on SECOEnergy.com.

SECO Energy Hosts High School Career Express Event for Sumter County School District

SECO Energy has partnered with CareerSource Central Florida to host the High School Career Express Event on February 27, marking the first time the Cooperative has served as a host site for the program. Students from the Sumter County School District arrived at the SECO Energy Headquarters, where they were welcomed by SECO leadership and staff before participating in hands-on presentations to learn more about the electric cooperative industry. 

 

Students from South Sumter High, Wildwood Middle High, and Sumter P.R.E.P. Academy were greeted by CEO Curtis Wynn, who delivered welcome remarks highlighting SECO Energy’s commitment to community engagement and future career opportunities within the Cooperative.  

 

Following the welcome session, students were divided into groups to explore various departments and facilities across SECO’s campus. Throughout the visit, employees led interactive presentations on Substation Operations, Solar and Energy Efficiency, Reliability and Operations, and Drone Technology, providing students with insight into the diverse career paths available in the energy industry. 

 

SECO Energy is a not-for-profit electric cooperative owned and operated by more than 265,000 members across Central Florida. The Cooperative recognizes the importance of investing in the education for students residing in its service territory. Through participation in programs like High School Career Express, SECO aims to cultivate local talent and help prepare students for future careers, with the potential to join the Cooperative. 

 

CareerSource Central Florida is a workforce development organization dedicated to helping job seekers access career opportunities and address employment-related needs.  The organization supports high-demand industries and local businesses by developing talent and fostering economic growth within the region. High School Career Express is a 7– to 10-week program designed to help students explore career pathways through company visits and professional networking opportunities.  

 

SECO Energy Chief Executive Officer Curtis Wynn welcomed students to the SECO Headquarters. Wynn stated, “Welcome, students and faculty, I am glad you are here to learn more about the energy industry, electric cooperatives, and SECO Energy. The talented students that I have interacted with in our local communities are truly impressive. Enjoy behind-the-scenes opportunity to explore future career paths and learn from your SECO hosts. We are excited to welcome you and share our electric cooperative with you.” 

 

Terri O’Neal, SECO Energy’s Community & Government Affairs Consultant, stated, “I would like to sincerely thank all the students who participated in our High School Career Express.  We hope your visit provided valuable insight into the energy industry and helped you explore the many opportunities available in this field.  Here at SECO Energy, we are committed to investing in the future leaders of the communities we serve. By offering programs like this, we aim to educate, inspire, and support the next generation, some of whom may one day join our team. Thank you for being part of this experience, and we wish you continued success in your journey ahead.” 

 

“We are thrilled to partner with SECO Energy as a hosting site for High School Career Express, giving local students the opportunity to experience firsthand the many career opportunities that exist beyond what they may traditionally associate with the utilities industry,” said Marcela DeFaria, Vice President of Development at CareerSource Central Florida. “By connecting them with industry leaders and real-world environments, we’re helping students envision their future and make informed decisions about their career journey.  

 

“At SECO Energy, we recognize that today’s students are tomorrow’s workforce,” said April Brown, Vice President of Human Resources & Corporate Services. “By engaging with students through programs like High School Career Express, we are helping them explore meaningful career paths while building a strong, skilled talent pipeline to support the future of our Cooperative and the communities we serve.” 

 

Students who participated in the High School Career Express event will be eligible for SECO Energy’s Internship program beginning in Summer 2026, with more details to follow. High School Seniors are also eligible for SECO Energy’s 2026 Scholarship Program, which will award 12 students who plan to attend a college, university, or trade school in Florida $4,000 each to support their education. Applications are now open, with a deadline on March 27, 2026. Students may find more details and apply on the SECO Energy website at secoenergy.com/scholarship.   

A group picture of High School Career Express students and chaperones alongside SECO Energy employees and CareerSource Central Florida’s Program Manager – Apprenticeship Navigator & Business Initiatives, Brenda Chrisman.
SECO Energy CEO Curtis Wynn welcomes the students at High School Career Express to the electric cooperative.

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.  

February/March SECO News

 

DEAR MEMBERS,

Reliable electricity is essential to everyday life. SECO Energy’s 2025 reliability performance reflects our World Class results. Reliable power supports growing communities, attracts businesses and jobs, protects livelihoods, and provides peace of mind. SECO Energy members deserve an electric system they can trust, which is why we are committed to continued improvement, thoughtful planning, and routine infrastructure maintenance.

We measure reliability using three nationally recognized metrics that serve as a report card on how well our electric system performs.

In 2025, SECO members were without power an average of just 63 minutes – slightly over an hour for the entire year. By comparison, nationwide data from 2024 shows consumers experienced an average of 662 minutes without power, or nearly 11 hours annually. That difference means homes remain comfortable and safe, and businesses can continue operating with minimal disruption.

We also track how often outages occur. In 2025, members experienced an average of less than one outage per year – .94 times to be exact. This result is well below the 2024 national average of 1.53 interruptions. For our communities, fewer outages translate

into greater productivity, safety, and confidence in planning for the future.

Equally important is how quickly power is restored when outages do occur. While we were fortunate to avoid major weather events last year, outages can still happen. In 2025, SECO’s average restoration time was only 67 minutes – more than six times faster than the 2024 national average of 432 minutes, or just over seven hours. Every minute matters, and our line technicians are prepared to respond quickly and safely.

Maintaining World Class reliability takes careful planning, disciplined maintenance, and ongoing investments in our electric grid. From routine inspections to proactive vegetation management along thousands of miles of power lines, our teams work every day to prevent outages before they happen and protect the communities we serve.

At SECO Energy, reliability isn’t measured in minutes – it’s measured in trust, preparedness, and our promise to keep you powered today and well into the future.

Sincerely,

CURTIS WYNN

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

SECO News February/March 2026 Spring Energy Efficiency Tips and Savings

 

SPRING IS HERE, and in Central Florida, that means that temperatures are back on the rise. We know how difficult it can be to stay cool without your energy bill skyrocketing. Here are some tips to cut back on your energy usage while keeping cool this spring.

USE YOUR WINDOWS TO COMBAT HEAT:

  • Install window coverings or curtains that prevent heat from entering through your windows during the day. Blocking this heat will improve efficiency by lightening the workload on your HVAC system.

OPERATE THERMOSTAT EFFICIENTLY:

  • Set your thermostat to a comfortable temperature while keeping in mind that the smaller the difference between indoor and outdoor temperatures, the lower your overall cooling bill will be. ENERGY STAR recommends setting your cooling temperature to 78 degrees.
  • Avoid setting your thermostat colder than usual when you first turn on your air conditioner, as this could lead to excessive cooling and unnecessary expense.
  • Keep your house warmer than usual when you are away and lower the thermostat when you return and need cooling.
  • Enroll qualifying thermostats in SECO’s Smart Connect program and earn incentives for allowing temperature adjustments during peak demand.

USE FANS AND VENTILATION STRATEGIES TO COOL YOUR HOME:

  • Keep in mind that fans cool people, not rooms, by creating a wind chill effect. Be sure to turn off ceiling fans when you leave the room.
  • When you take a shower or bath, use the ventilation fan to remove heat and humidity from your home. Ensure that bathroom and kitchen fans are routed to the outside.

MAINTAIN COOLING SYSTEM EFFICIENCY:

  • Schedule regular maintenance for your HVAC equipment to maximize energy affordability.
  • Avoid placing lamps or TV sets near your thermostat; the thermostat senses heat from these appliances, which can cause the air conditioner to run longer than necessary.
  • Regularly clean air intake vents to remove dust buildup and ensure that furniture or other objects do not block airflow through your registers.

PREVENT HOT AIR FROM LEAKING INTO YOUR HOME

  • Seal cracks and openings to prevent warm air from leaking into your home.
  • Seal air leaks around doors and windows using caulk or weatherstripping.

LOWER HOT WATER HEATING:

  • According to Energy.gov, water heating accounts for 18% of the energy consumed in your home. Lowering your hot water setting will conserve energy and save money.

 

SECO Energy is excited to announce the twelve high school juniors who have been selected to attend the Florida Youth Tour in Tallahassee. This is an exciting leadership and learning opportunity for students in our communities. Student delegates will gain insight into the energy industry and cooperative business model while exploring the Florida State Capitol and Legislative Chambers.

V. ESCOBAR, Ocala

Forest High School

P. FORMAN, Minneola

Lake Minneola High School

D. HERRICK, Eustis

Homeschool

S. HYMILLER, Clermont

East Ridge High School

J. JACKSON, Minneola

Lake Minneola High School

E. BARRIOS MEDRANO, Ocala

West Port High School

L. PATTESON, Eustis

Mount Dora High School

D. PINEIRO, Inverness

Homeschool (Abeka Academy)

M. REES, Middleton

The Villages Charter High School

M. SUDOL, Ocala

Belleview High School

H. TURO, Summerfield

Forest High School

C. WINTERS, Oxford

The Villages Charter High School

SECO News February/March 2026 Trustee Insight Go Green with Monthly Bank Draft and Paperless Billing Joseph Kusiak District 7 Trustee

 

Managing your electric bill should be simple, secure, and stress-free – that’s why more members are choosing to pay their monthly bill through bank draft instead of mailing a check.

With bank draft, your monthly payment is automatically withdrawn from your checking or savings account on your due date. Bank draft is the environmentally friendly choice – no stamps to buy and no need to write a check. Once you enroll in bank draft, you can relax knowing that your bill will be paid on time, every time – even when you’re away from home.

Security is a top priority. Your financial information is protected using encrypted systems, which reduces the risk of lost checks, mail delays, or fraud. Bank draft minimizes handling and provides a safe, reliable way to pay your bill month after month.

After enrolling in bank draft, go green and paperless – paperless billing makes bill management even easier. Instead of waiting for a paper bill, you’ll receive your statement electronically, which is faster, more secure, and accessible anytime through our online account management platform SmartHub. Paperless billing reduces clutter, supports environmental sustainability, and ensures you always have a digital record at your fingertips.

Bank draft and paperless billing are convenient. You’ll save time by eliminating manual payments, late fees, and trying to remember due dates. Your bill is available for review each month, you can track payments easily, while letting bank draft work automatically in the background.

Choosing bank draft and paperless billing is a smart, secure, and hassle-free way to manage your SECO Energy account – and enjoy greater peace of mind every month.

SECO News February/March 2026 Area Light Outage Reporting

 

If you notice an area light that is out, flickering, or on during the day, report the malfunction online using LightFinder on our StormCenter platform. LightFinder is available to report outage light issues 24 hours a day, 7 days a week – even on weekends.

To report, visit SECOEnergy.com > StormCenter and choose LightFinder. Enter the pole number or closest address in the search bar in the upper left. An icon represents each light. Working lights are shown as a green icon, while a red icon is a light that has already been reported as malfunctioning. The icon is orange if the light has been repaired in the last 24 hours. A gray icon represents inactive lights, and a blue icon is a member-owned light.

Complete the short reporting form and submit your email address to receive updates about the light’s repair status.

BOARD MEETING DATES

The Board of Trustees will meet on Monday, February 23, at 2:30 p.m. in the Corporate Offices at 330 South US HWY 301 in Sumterville.

A Trustees’ meeting will also be held on Monday, March 30, 2026.

Read the full February/March SECO News.

 

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 Foundation Awards Over $1 Million in 2025 Community Grants

Curtis Wynn, Chief Executive Officer of SECO Energy
Curtis Wynn, Chief Executive Officer of SECO Energy

The SECO Energy Foundation has awarded more than $1 million in grants to support 82 transformative community initiatives across nonprofit organizations serving Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Levy, Marion, Pasco, and Sumter Counties in 2025. Without the unwavering support of SECO members, meaningful projects in these local communities would not be possible. 

 

In 2025, the Foundation’s Board of Directors approved grants totaling $1,093,147, supporting programs that strengthen families, promote education, enhance health and wellness, and improve quality of life throughout Central Florida. The SECO Energy Foundation is an example of how many small contributions working together equal measurable support. 

 

Overview of SECO Energy Foundation Funding in 2025: 

  • Health and Human Services: $747,502 
  • Education STEM Projects: $118,935 
  • Veteran’s Initiatives: $104,800 
  • Energy-Related Projects: $60,900 
  • Public Safety: $51,010 
  • Environmental Projects: $10,000 

 

“These grants are a powerful reminder of the difference we can make when we come together as a community,” said Curtis Wynn, CEO of SECO Energy. “Thanks to the dedication of our SECO Energy members, these funds are helping local organizations provide critical resources – from feeding families and supporting veterans to empowering young people and advancing education. It’s an honor to see these contributions bring lasting change to our communities.”  

 

The SECO Energy Foundation is a nonprofit organization committed to uplifting local communities. These funds support a diverse range of impactful initiatives across SECO Energy’s service area, advancing public safety, educational STEM, energy efficiency, environmental stewardship, veterans’ services, and health and human services. Each awarded organization plays a vital role in strengthening our communities. For more information or to apply, visit www.SECOFoundation.org. 

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.