June 09, 2020

Brodhead Water & Light Superintendent Receives National Award

Member Utilities

Jeff Peterson, Superintendent of Brodhead Water & Light, received the Larry Hobart Seven Hats Award during the American Public Power Association’s Public Power Connect: Virtual Summit & Business Meeting. The award recognizes managers of small utilities serving fewer than 2,500 meters. These managers have a small staff and must assume multiple roles. The seven hats they must wear are: planning and design, administration, public relations, field supervision, accounting, human resources, and community leadership.

Throughout his 38-year career in public power, Peterson made it a priority to focus on customers and his hometown community. Under his leadership, the utility adopted new technologies, increased operational efficiencies, and provided key support for a variety of worthwhile local projects and initiatives. Peterson always made it a priority to deliver as much value as possible for customers.

“Jeff worked hard to do the right thing for both the utility and the community,” said Cory Neeley, Energy Services Representative for Brodhead Water & Light. “He never seeks the spotlight and is always helping to improve the area. For example, he’s put in a lot of effort to beautify Pearl Island for the enjoyment of his fellow citizens.”

In addition to being the Superintendent and adding value to the community, Peterson served on the board of directors for WPPI Energy, a not-for-profit company providing wholesale electric power to locally owned utilities.

“The WPPI Energy membership, specifically the board of directors, has greatly benefited from Jeff’s long-term service and leadership,” stated Mike Peters, CEO of WPPI Energy. “Jeff consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to moving forward WPPI’s business priorities. His perspective from the smaller-sized utilities has been invaluable.”

Peterson began work at Brodhead Water & Light in 1981 at the encouragement of his neighbor who was the commission president. He worked his way up through operational positions and became a journeyman. Peterson was the superintendent since Carroll Sheafor retired in 2007, until his own retirement earlier this spring.

“I have had the pleasure of watching Jeff grow with his career and especially within his leadership at Water & Light,” said Carrol Shaefor, Commissioner and Former Superintendent of Brodhead Water & Light. “We have a small staff. His responsibilities were numerous and he worked very hard for our utility and our customers. We will miss him and wish him the best in his retirement.”