Thanks for the Memories
From Basket to Boardroom

A FINAL MESSAGE FROM YOUR GENERAL MANAGER/CEO

GARY RAYBON

In May of 1984, the employees of Wharton County Electric Cooperative came to work and found me in a basket on the front doorstep. They took me in and raised me as one of their own. That’s my story—and I’m sticking to it.

Most of those employees are gone now. Yet even after more than forty years at the co-op, I still rank number four on the seniority list. That says something about the kind of people who make this place what it is.

I owe a heartfelt thank you to Wesley Lange and Mr. Stubbs for hiring me, and to Richard Jalowy for putting up with me and answering more questions than anyone should have to in those first few years. There were plenty of Fridays early on when I left the office convinced I wouldn’t be back on Monday.

WCEC was never supposed to be permanent. As a newly graduated drafting major from Wharton County Junior College, I had plans for bright lights and a big city. But at the time, no engineering firms were hiring. I took a job at WCEC thinking it would be temporary—just until something better came along.

A funny thing happened along the way: I realized where home truly is.

The stories of perseverance, service, and resilience are too many to count. With this current group of employees and department heads, WCEC’s future is very bright.

I am also deeply grateful to the nine board members who took a chance on me in 2010 by selecting me as General Manager/CEO. I hope I have never given you reason to question that decision.

WCEC’s membership has always had a knack for electing great board members.

During my time in this role, I’ve had the opportunity to work with 28 directors and five board presidents. Each one brought a unique perspective, but all shared a commitment to doing what’s best for the cooperative and the communities we serve. It’s a testament to this organization that people with different viewpoints can come together, make thoughtful decisions, and leave the room still united. I encourage every WCEC member to consider serving on the board.

Forty-two years is a long time—and it’s time to pass along the reins.

I am truly grateful for the opportunity to be a part of WCEC. As we welcome Kyle Wallis as the eighth CEO, I wish him, our employees, our board, and our members continued success.

And in the words of the esteemed Bob Hope—thanks for the memories.