Bill Terry Retires from Blue Ridge Electric
Bill Terry Retires from
Blue Ridge Electric
For Immediate Release
Contact: Renee Whitener, Director of Public Relations, Blue Ridge Electric Membership Corporation, (828) 758-2383, Ext. 3213; Pager: 1-800-471-1323; or E-mail: Renee Whitener
Lenoir, North Carolina (February 26, 2007) - William “Bill” Terry, director of engineering and reliability, recently retired from Blue Ridge Electric Membership Corporation after more than 30 years of service.
Terry, known for his easy-going demeanor, served Blue Ridge members since 1976 when he was hired as a staff transmission and distribution engineer. In 1980 he became director of engineering and later saw his title change to director of engineering and reliability as technology evolved and consumers’ expectations changed.
“Bill is one of the best engineers that I have ever had the pleasure of working with,” stated Lee Layton, chief operating officer. “We will miss his expertise as well as his humor.”
Terry’s co-workers felt the same way when they nominated him and he won the 2003 Blue Ridge Electric Touchstone Overall Excellence Award. This award recognizes employees who demonstrate exceptional customer service, accountability, and operational excellence. During the selection process, Terry was described by his staff as a motivator and an organized, detail-oriented, extremely dedicated worker who never expected praise or recognition for his achievements.
When asked what he was most proud of during his time at Blue Ridge Electric, Terry replied, “Some of my best memories are when we finished a project, energized a substation and heard that transformer start to hum; or seeing the lights come on after helping with storm restoration.”
Terry’s knowledge of Blue Ridge Electric’s transmission and distribution system has been described as “invaluable. Although much of his work could be considered “behind the scenes,” the effects of his labor touched all of the 70,000 members-owners Blue Ridge serves.
“I’m just thankful that I had the opportunity to work at Blue Ridge for 31 years and was able to have a career that provided a service to the community,” said Terry. “And I am so thankful to have worked with such an outstanding group of co-workers.”
Terry and his wife, Wanda, are looking forward to their first ocean cruise and cross country road trip before settling down to enjoy a well-earned retirement.
Blue Ridge Electric is a member-owned electric cooperative serving some 70,000 members in Caldwell, Watauga, Ashe, Alleghany, Wilkes and Alexander counties.
