Co-op Conversations with DEMCO

In this episode of Co-op Conversations with DEMCO , David Latona sits down with Carl Westbrook, GIS Manager, and Dusty Guarino, GIS Specialist, to discuss how DEMCO manages and maintains the digital map of its entire electrical system. From power lines and poles to transformers and meters, the GIS team works behind the scenes to ensure the system accurately reflects what’s happening in the field....

In this episode of Co-op Conversations with DEMCO , we’re joined by linemen Michael Welborn and serviceman Ashton to explain how capacitor banks help keep your power steady and reliable, what our crews look for during systemwide inspections, and how devices like reclosers work to protect the grid. You’ll also learn how to tell the difference between an issue inside your home and something on our s...

In this episode of Co-op Conversations with DEMCO , host David Latona sits down with District Manager Cody Glascock to take you behind the scenes of a “day in the life” of the crews who keep your power on. You’ll also hear about the work members don’t see, the mindset it takes to do the job safely, and the dedication of local crews who are ready to respond at a moment’s notice. Cody shares what it...

Winter Storm Fern brought snow, freezing rain and high winds that led to nearly a million power outages across 19 states earlier this year. Atmospheric conditions in several states caused ice buildup that brought down trees and branches and caused massive ice loading on power lines. And when Winter Storm Fern moved through Louisiana, DEMCO crews answered the call to help restore power beyond our s...

In this episode of Co-op Conversations with DEMCO , host David Latona is joined by Rhowanda “Rho” Vessel, DEMCO’s Community Relations Coordinator, to talk about the DEMCO Foundation and the vital role it plays in supporting co-op members during times of need. Rho explains how the Foundation works, the types of assistance it provides, and how small contributions from members add up to meaningful he...

In this episode of Co-op Conversations with DEMCO , host David Latona sits down with Galen Dunbar, DEMCO’s Chief Member Services Officer, to talk about how DEMCO is making it easier than ever to connect with your cooperative. You’ll hear how DEMCO’s new cloud-based phone system improves every call — with features like call-back options, a Spanish-language menu, and an integrated platform that unit...

When storms hit, members want one thing most: power restored quickly and safely. Right-of-way (ROW) maintenance is one of the most important — and often unseen — ways DEMCO makes that possible. In this episode of Co-op Conversations with DEMCO , host David Latona talks with Sam Rosso, DEMCO’s Manager of Lands & Right of Way, about how clearing vegetation around poles and lines gives crews the...

From birth through high school, DEMCO is helping shape the future by investing in young people across the communities we serve. In this episode of Co-op Conversations with DEMCO , host David Latona sits down with Chanon Martin, DEMCO’s Member and Community Engagement Manager, to talk about the many youth programs that connect families to their co-op. You’ll hear how DEMCO supports early literacy t...

In this episode of Co-op Conversations with DEMCO , host David Latona sits down with Ashley Carradine, DEMCO’s Energy Services Coordinator, to talk about easy ways members can reduce their electric use—especially during the hot summer months—without giving up comfort or control. Ashley explains how much energy typical household appliances use and where you can make the biggest impact. From laundry...

In this episode of Co-op Conversations with DEMCO , host David Latona sits down with Mark Phillips, DEMCO’s Chief Engineering and Operations Officer, to discuss the steps to restoring power after a storm. You’ll learn how DEMCO restores power in a specific sequence—starting with transmission lines and substations and working all the way down to individual service lines—to ensure the greatest numbe...

In this episode of Co-op Conversations with DEMCO , host David Latona sits down with Mark Phillips, DEMCO’s Chief Engineering and Operations Officer, to discuss what it really takes to be storm-ready—long before a hurricane is in the forecast. Mark explains how DEMCO prepares year-round to ensure fast, safe response when severe weather strikes. From routine inspections and vegetation management to...

In this episode of Co-op Conversations with DEMCO , we continue our discussion on DERMS—Distributed Energy Resource Management Systems—and explore how this smart, innovative technology could benefit our co-op and its members. Our guest, Jeff Andry, Chief Strategy & Regulatory Officer, joins host David Latona to explain how DERMS works in partnership with co-op members by leveraging smart devic...

Welcome to the first episode of Co-op Conversations with DEMCO ! In this episode, we’re breaking down the basics of DERMS—what it stands for, how it works, and why DEMCO is exploring this smart technology to benefit our members. Our host, David Latona, DEMCO’s Director of Communications and Governmental Affairs, sits down with Jeff Andry, Chief Strategy & Regulatory Officer, to talk about how...