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April 5, 2025

McClay’s path exemplifies lineworkers’ opportunities for growth, advancement, and leadership When Steve McClay applied for a job at Pioneer Electric Cooperative, it wasn’t because he was an experienced lineman or had extensive knowledge of the electric industry. He simply trusted his father’s word that the cooperative was a good place to work and hoped that his experience operating heavy machinery would make him stand out in an interview. At the time, he was young, had just purchased a home, and was ready to start a family. “I came to Pioneer, and when I walked in, there were probably 50 people...

April 5, 2025

Pioneer Linemen recount Project Ohio In the remote village of Barejones, Guatemala, a team of linemen from Ohio, including Pioneer Serviceman Curtis Schmidt and Manager of Safety and Construction David Overman, embarked on a life-changing mission — to bring electricity to a community that had been waiting decades for power. Through Project Ohio, they worked to turn the lights on — a testament to the cooperative spirit that first electrified rural America. The work was physically demanding, but the sense of fulfillment was unmatched. The Ohio linemen were divided between overhead work and interior electrical wiring, building upon the foundation...

January 13, 2025

6S Products in Anna started with five family members, one injection molding press, and a mission to find a niche while building a foundation of trust, dependability, and value. “We didn’t have a goal of being a large company; we just wanted to be able to personalize and help find solutions for companies when they need it,” says Neil Schroer, who owns the company along with his wife, Genny; two of their daughters, Emily Schroeder and Tracy Platfoot; and son-in-law, Josh Platfoot. (By the way, entrepreneurial spirit runs through the family: Neil and Genny also have a son, Eric, who...

October 28, 2024

Giving thanks and reflecting on 2024 As November begins, I’ve been reflecting on the many changes that have shaped the cooperative this year — many of which you’ll see highlighted in the next few pages. Since officially stepping into the role of CEO in mid-September, I’ve had a busy and exciting time getting up to speed with everything happening at Pioneer. In just a short period, I’ve witnessed numerous improvements aimed at benefiting both the cooperative and our community. One of the key milestones in 2024 was the addition of a new electronics and field technician, along with five linemen...

September 17, 2024

The Pioneer Electric Board of Trustees initiated and approved the renaming of Union Substation to Salyer Substation in honor of longtime CEO, Ron Salyer, during the August Board Meeting. This recognition comes ahead of Ron’s retirement on September 16, 2024. Ron has served the cooperative for the past 27 years, including 23 years as CEO. “Ron has played a key role in collaborating with City of Union officials to attract industry to the area,” said Mark Bailey, Board of Trustees Chair. “He has led the charge in developing Pioneer’s electrical infrastructure to serve its expanding electrical load. This major substation...

September 12, 2024

Pioneer Electric is pleased to announce the promotion of David Overman to Manager of Safety and Construction, effective September 16, 2024. Overman joined Pioneer in October 2021 as a Lineman First Class and has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to safety and teamwork. With his experience as a lineman and excellent safety record, Overman is well-prepared to guide and support the cooperative in implementing best practices to prevent injuries, vehicle accidents and other safety aspects. His leadership will be an asset as Pioneer continues to prioritize safety across all operations.