Education: Bachelor of Science in communication studies, Saint Cloud State University

Hobby: Hockey mom

What's it like being a hockey mom? I think the most enjoyable part for me is watching my kids experience both success and defeat. It's fun to celebrate the successes alongside of them, but it's in the defeat that they really learn resilience, which is such a great character trait to learn as a child.

Were you also a hockey player? Surprisingly, I was not. I do have fond memories of skating on the neighborhood pond growing up.

What's the best life lesson you or your kids have learned on the ice? It takes a team to win the game. The result of the game is not dependent on one player. You have to have all parts of the team doing their part to achieve success.

Do you see any similarities between playing hockey and working at a co-op? Definitely. It takes a team to win at a co-op, too. Every function of our co-op matters. Our success is dependent on everyone doing their job to the best of their ability.

What do you like most about working for an electric co-op? The people. Instantly I felt like I had a network of people—who quickly became friends—that were all working toward the same goal of serving our members.

Any words of advice to new co-op employees? My best advice would be to continue to grow in your professional development by tapping into the many opportunities the cooperative offers. And I would also encourage new co-op employees to shadow other employees while they do their job. It gives you a new perspective and a deeper appreciation for your teammates.

Know someone who could be profiled? Contact Alexis Woodhouse at alexis.woodhouse@nreca.coop.