Hobby: I have been singing with my band Trilogy for years. We cover music from the ’80s, ’90s, and today and play many different genres. I have been singing in choir and a cappella groups since I was about 13 years old.

How did you get started in music? I have always loved music. My grandfather Barry Darvell was a popular singer back in the ’50s and ’60s, and I grew up listening to his songs.

What’s your favorite thing about performing? The reactions from the crowd. If it is an upbeat song, I love seeing people get up and dance, laugh, and sing along. When we play slower songs and get to watch couples share moments slow dancing together. It is an awesome feeling to be able to emotionally connect with people through singing.

Who are you inspired by? My grammy. She is such a beautiful and strong woman. Anyone who knows her always speaks so highly of her. She is one of the most loved and respected women in town. She always puts others first and is so graceful in everything she does.

Do you ever get nervous? I used to get so nervous— shaking, sweats, the whole nine! Now I’m much more comfortable and love being on stage. The more people in the crowd, the less nervous I am.

What instruments do you play? Guitar and piano.

How did you hear about the job at SMECO, and why did you want to work there? I was born and raised in Southern Maryland, and my grandfather worked for SMECO for many years. When I heard about the job from a friend, I jumped at the opportunity to work close to home and for a company that has been a part of the family.

What do you like most about your job? It is such a fun place to work. Everyone here has been so welcoming, and have gone above and beyond to make me feel like family. I look forward to getting up every day and coming in to work.

Favorite band and/or song of all time? Favorite band: Guns N Roses. Favorite song: Hallelujah by Jeff Buckley.

Education: Bachelor of Science in engineering from James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Virginia.

One random fact or something most people may not know about you: I wanted to be a veterinarian when I grew up. I love animals.

Do you have a colleague we should get to know better? There are only three requirements to share their story:

• They have been at your co-op one year or less

• They have never worked at an electric co-op before

• They have an interesting hobby (i.e., fly fishing, bee keeping, small business owner, fitness/outdoor enthusiast, singing or playing in a band – the sky's the limit!)

If you or one of your colleagues meet these requirements, we'd love to hear from you. Please send nominations to megan.mcatee@nreca.coop.

Interested in joining the co-op family? Visit NRECA's Cooperative Career Center to search co-op careers.