Raleigh, N.C. (Dec. 18, 2024) – North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives announces the retirement of Nelle Hotchkiss, senior vice president and chief operating officer of the North Carolina Association of Electric Cooperatives (NCAEC), a trade association owned by the state’s 26 electric co-ops.

Hotchkiss, who has served cooperatives, their members and communities for more than 28 years, will be succeeded by Kristie Aldridge at the end of the first quarter in 2025.

“The relationships Nelle has cultivated throughout her career, along with her unwavering commitment to rural North Carolina have been invaluable in shaping policy and advocating for the needs of electric cooperatives and their members,” said Joe Brannan, executive vice president and CEO of North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives. “Her dedication to the mission of electric co-ops will have an impact on co-op communities for generations to come.”

Hotchkiss (left) and Aldridge (right)

“It has been an honor to serve the state’s electric cooperatives and their consumer-members for nearly three decades,” said Hotchkiss. “Electric cooperatives are champions of rural North Carolina, and I am proud to have been a part of a shared vision for a Brighter Future and to advocate for affordable, reliable electricity for co-op communities.”

Aldridge has been an integral part of NCAEC team since 2007 and currently serves as vice president of strategic communications and marketing.

“Through the years Kristie has demonstrated the leadership and vison required to serve cooperative members as we continue to face the demands and opportunities of the rapidly evolving energy industry,” said Brannan. “We welcome her depth of experience and member insight to build upon the legacy Nelle will leave behind.”

Media Contact:

Townley Venters | Townley.venters@ncemcs.com | 919-645-2432

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North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives includes the family of organizations formed to support the state’s 26 community-based electric cooperatives, including: North Carolina Electric Membership corporation, a generation and transmission organization; North Carolina Association of Electric Cooperative, the cooperatives’ trade association; and Tarheel Electric Membership Association, Inc. (TEMA), a central purchasing and materials-supply cooperative.