In thinking about the message for this quarter’s newsletter, I thought a bit about our core values and wanted to spend a few moments focusing on communication. It plays a critical role in our cooperative's success and, along with safety, serves as the foundation for all that we do.

Communication is not merely a task to check off our to-do list; it's the heartbeat of our organization. It's the conduit through which ideas are shared, plans are coordinated, and relationships are nurtured. As we navigate the complexities of our industry and strive to meet the needs of our Members, effective communication becomes more than just a convenience—it's a necessity.

There’s obviously a myriad of ways we can communicate within our cooperative and with outside entities. From face-to-face interactions and meetings to emails, newsletters, and digital platforms such as Microsoft Teams, we have a wealth of tools available to us. Each channel serves a unique purpose, allowing us to tailor our message to the audience and convey information with clarity and precision. We’ve instituted numerous unique opportunities for engagement across the cooperative including our Safety Committee, Employee Standing Committee, staff meetings following Board meetings, HR communication meetings, suggestion boxes, and so many other means including the most recent addition, Watts for Lunch: Current Communications with Clif. As you know, we held our inaugural Watts for Lunch meeting in March with a group of 10 employees and I really enjoyed the opportunity to share what was occurring within STEC and the chance to answer questions and solicit feedback from those in attendance. It was a great inaugural event!

However, it's not enough to simply have these channels; we must also use them thoughtfully and intentionally. Clear, transparent communication fosters trust, encourages collaboration, and empowers every member of our family to contribute their best work. Whether you're sharing updates on a project, seeking input from colleagues, or providing feedback on a proposal, I encourage you to embrace open communication as a cornerstone of our cooperative culture.

Moreover, effective communication is a two-way street. It requires not only speaking but also listening actively and empathetically. An environment where every voice is heard, where questions are welcomed, and where feedback is valued serves as a catalyst for growth and improvement.

As we move forward, I urge each of you to prioritize communication in your daily interactions. Let's leverage our communication channels to their fullest potential, ensuring that information flows freely, ideas are exchanged openly, and collaboration flourishes. Together, we can strengthen our cooperative family and achieve our shared goals for the benefit of our Members.

Thank you for your dedication to excellence and your commitment to fostering a culture of communication within our cooperative. Your efforts make a difference, and I am grateful for each and every one of you!