At the core of the cooperative structure is the principle of cooperation among cooperatives — the belief that working together strengthens each co-op’s ability to serve members and contribute to the success of the broader cooperative network. This year’s Cooperative Technologies Conference and Expo (CTCE) brought that principle to life, bringing together 455 industry leaders and partners from 26 states.

From engaging sessions to hands-on demonstrations, the conference showcased a shared commitment to innovation and to building a brighter future across the state.

“Working together is the backbone of the cooperative network here in North Carolina”

Matt Epps, Lumbee River Electric Membership Corporation

“Working together is the backbone of the cooperative network here in North Carolina,” said Matt Epps, vice president of engineering and operations at Lumbee River Electric Membership Corporation (LREMC). “The conference offers a unique opportunity to share ideas and explore new solutions. However, we’re not just collaborating [at the conference] — all year long, we’re supporting one another.”

During the four-day conference in Wilmington, sessions covered topics like emerging technologies, innovative energy solutions and improving reliability. Cooperative leaders also discussed key issues affecting co-ops and their members, including cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.
“I believe here in North Carolina, the cooperatives are good at staying ahead of the curve and collaborating, which helps,” said Lee Sawtell, IT systems engineer at Cape Hatteras Electric Cooperative. “By sharing ideas and adopting new technologies, we can respond more quickly to challenges.”

With new energy technology emerging every year, the ability to keep pace with these advancements and ask essential questions is what makes CTCE valuable for many attendees. Epps, who has attended the event for 15 years, said the conference’s growth has helped him build connections with other co-ops and return home with knowledge that makes a difference.

“Every year I walk away with something new — whether it’s an idea from a session, a tip from another co-op, or a contact I can call when I run into a challenge,” Epps said. “That kind of collaboration is what makes this event so valuable.”