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,” said Matt Epps, vice president of engineering and operations at Lumbee River Electric Membership Corporation (LREMC). “This week offers a unique opportunity to share ideas and explore new solutions. However, we’re not just collaborating this week — all year long, we’re supporting one another.”

During the four-day conference in Wilmington, North Carolina, speakers and attendees discussed important topics, including emerging technologies, innovative energy solutions and improving reliability.

Sharing new ideas

North Carolina’s electric cooperatives are continually exploring new ways to improve systems and strengthen the grid, including technologies that can enhance operations. Lee Sawtell, IT systems engineer at Cape Hatteras Electric Cooperative, led a panel highlighting how the Buxton-based co-op is using drones to modernize inspections and storm response.

The initiative, titled AMP4NC, combines drone technology with AI tools that Sawtell said will reduce manual labor, improve accuracy and accelerate utility workflows.

“Just in the short time we’ve had this program, we’ve saved so much time and resources,” Sawtell said. “As one of the smallest co-ops in North Carolina, it’s been encouraging to see this grow, and now to deliver this as a resource to our fellow co-ops is something I’m excited about.”

In addition to exploring drone technology, cooperative leaders discussed topics such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and other key issues affecting co-ops.

“I believe here in North Carolina, the cooperatives are good at staying ahead of the curve and collaborating, which helps,” Sawtell said. “By sharing ideas and adopting new technologies, we can respond more quickly to challenges.”

Continuing to grow and learn

Beyond breakout sessions and keynote presentations, attendees met with vendors and participated in speed networking sessions, connecting IT professionals and engineers with industry experts to explore products and solutions that enhance operations.

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.”

Next year’s Cooperative Technology Conference and Expo will take place August 11-14 in Wilmington, North Carolina. Registration will open in the spring.