At the core of the cooperative model is a commitment to service — to members, to communities and to those whose dedication helps communities thrive. That spirit of service extends beyond our state and into supporting the military members who serve our country.

That’s why North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives are proud to partner with The Honor Foundation, a program for U.S. Special Operations Forces that helps them navigate the change from military to civilian life.

“Partnering with organizations like North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives creates meaningful, mission-aligned value for The Honor Foundation and our Fellows,” said Angie Mullennix, Director of People of the Fort Bragg- Pinehurst campus for The Honor Foundation. “These organizations are deeply rooted in service, innovation, and community — principles that mirror THF’s commitment to supporting transitioning U.S. Special Operations Forces as they prepare for their next chapter.”

The Honor Foundation’s impact extends across the entire U.S. Special Operations Forces enterprise, reaching nearly 60,000 active-duty personnel through its transition program, seminars and career support services.

Union Power recently welcomed The Honor Foundation for a hands-on look at the diverse career opportunities within the electric cooperative network. Service members had the chance to explore day-to-day operations, learn how co-ops deliver reliable service to communities across North Carolina, and hear directly from cooperative professionals during a panel discussion. The visit offered valuable insights, practical advice, and a deeper understanding of how their skills can translate into meaningful roles within the cooperative world.

“It was a true honor to host the recent cohort from The Honor Foundation,” said Greg Andress, CEO of Union Power. “The event provided an opportunity to demonstrate the diverse and fulfilling career paths within the electric utility industry and help bridge these brave men and women to work life outside of the military.”

Among the panelists who spoke with fellows from The Honor Foundation was Cooper Cash, Vice President of IT Operations for North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives and a military veteran. Cash served as an infantryman and later as a public affairs specialist and photojournalist in the Army Reserve.

“The sense of service is the biggest thing you see across the co-ops,” said Cash. “That mission of serving members is the closest thing I’ve felt to the military since leaving the military. It’s an honor to share my experience and expertise with these service members. Transitioning out of the military is hard — there’s no road map — but this program helps make that process manageable and sets these individuals up for success.”

As part of its program, The Honor Foundation pairs each fellow with a coach who provide guidance, industry insight, and personal support throughout their transition into the private sector. One of those coaches is North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives Executive VP and CEO Joe Brannan, who participates in THF activities and supports the organization. His involvement helps ensure that our special operations forces serve members not only understand the opportunities available to them but also feel supported as they prepare for the next chapter of their careers.

“We are deeply grateful to these men and women for their service to our country,” said Brannan. “Across North Carolina’s electric cooperatives, we are committed to supporting service members and veterans, whether that’s through career opportunities, community programs, or partnerships like this one. It’s a privilege to play a small part in their transition and to help them build the next chapter of their lives.”

The Honor Foundation provides comprehensive career transition support for members of the U.S. Special Operations community — not just during their transition, but for life. Mullennix said alumni are always welcome to return to classes, attend events, and receive assistance with résumés, interviews, and other career needs. This lifelong support network fosters a strong sense of community and ensures that every fellow has access to guidance and resources long after graduating from the program.

For more information, visit The Honor Foundation’s website.

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About The Honor Foundation

The Honor Foundation (THF) is a career transition institute for U.S. Special Operations Forces that effectively translates their elite military service to the private sector and helps create the next generation of corporate and community leaders. It achieves this through a three-month program which provides tailored executive education, one-on-one coaching, and access to a nationwide professional network. This program was built by the desire to serve others with honor for life, so that their next mission is always clear and continues to impact the world. Every step is dedicated to preparing these outstanding men and women to continue to realize their maximum potential during and after their service career. The Honor Foundation has over 4,000 graduates to date and has campuses in San Diego, CA; Virginia Beach, VA; Camp Lejeune, NC; Fort Bragg- Pinehurst, NC; Fort Bragg- Fayetteville, NC; Eglin, FL; Tampa, FL; JBLM, WA; Fort Campbell, TN; THF Drew Dix Campus at Colorado Springs, and two virtual programs (THFv). The Navy SEAL Foundation is a Founding Partner of The Honor Foundation.