Hamlin Retires After 25 Years of Service to Piedmont Electric Cooperative

Jordan Overbee (left) with Steve Hamlin. Photo courtesy of Piedmont Electric Cooperative.

In July, Piedmont Electric Cooperative’s Steve Hamlin retired from his role as president and general manager after eight years in the position and nearly three decades with the Hillsborough-based electric cooperative. 

His journey with the co-op began as the accounting manager, quickly rising to chief financial officer (CFO) within his first year. Steve held the CFO position for two decades before stepping into the president and general manager role.

In addition to leading the co-op through technical advancements including outage notifications, electric vehicle infrastructure and smart meter deployment, Hamlin noted being particularly proud of several other major achievements: the establishment of the Piedmont Electric Helping Hand Foundation, the successful implementation of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant program, and the expansion of shared services with other co-ops.

“These initiatives have not only benefited members but also resulted in significant cost savings,” Hamlin said. “I’m also incredibly proud that our employees have maintained a commendable safety record with no major injuries.”

“Steve’s leadership and dedication have left an enduring mark on Piedmont Electric and the broader community, establishing a robust foundation for further growth and success,” said Piedmont Electric Board Chair Randy Kinley.

“Steve’s leadership and dedication have left an enduring mark on Piedmont Electric and the broader community, establishing a robust foundation for further growth and success,”

Jordan Overbee was selected to succeed Hamlin as the co-op’s new president and general manager. Overbee joins Piedmont Electric from Supply-based Brunswick EMC, where he served as vice president of engineering and operations.

“We knew how important it was to get this right for our members and for our employees,” Kinley said. “The board wanted to find someone who could ensure Piedmont Electric continues to provide exceptional service, and we believe that Jordan is the right person to lead our co-op in fulfilling that mission.”

With over 15 years of experience in the electric industry, including roles at Progress Energy, Wake Electric, and Pike Engineering, Overbee brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his new position. He highlighted that his experience with both investor-owned utilities and member-centric cooperatives has helped him hone a servant leadership style.

“Realizing what you can do for someone else on a daily basis, I believe that’s what will make Piedmont successful for our members,” Overbee explained. He emphasized the importance of every employee understanding their role from the perspective of a member, ensuring exceptional service.

Overbee affirmed that the co-op’s long-term priorities will remain focused on member satisfaction, reliability, cost and safety. He also shared his eagerness to connect with Piedmont Electric’s members and employees, and identify strengths and opportunities for improvement in the short term.

“I’m excited to meet everybody and to have the opportunity to lead a great organization,” Overbee said. “Being there for the member and knowing that you’re providing such an important service is what excites me and is why I come to work.”