WESLEY LANGE CELEBRATES 50 YEARS AT WCEC

February’s Texas Co-op Power HOME TEAM Spotlight features a member of the team who has reached a momentous milestone – Electric System Manager Wesley Lange. Today, Wesley celebrates 50 years of service to the cooperative and its members.

On February 2, 1970, Wesley began his career at WCEC as a draftsman. At the time, he was looking for a temporary job. Past Board President Wilfred Kainer informed him of a position at WCEC.

“Luckily I was hired, and this month marks 50 years of service. It’s been a great ride,” Wesley says. 

Wesley has lived most of his life in Wharton County. He is a graduate of El Campo High School, Wharton County Junior College, and University of Houston-Victoria.

During his career, Wesley has worked under three general managers: Frank Stubbs, Donald Naiser, and current GM/CEO Gary Raybon. He has seen the cooperative move from the old Green Castle building to the current headquarters on Jackson Street, the creation of the Public Utility Commission, the formation of San Miquel Electric Cooperative, and the expansion of WCEC’s power grid, staff and services.

As Electric System Manager, he is responsible for managing the system operations, physical equipment and distribution system that brings electricity to each of our members. This includes new construction projects, system upgrades and maintenance. Although his title has changed several times, he has held these duties for over 30 years. He heads up the Engineering Department, WCEC’s Line Crew (along with Line Superintendent Chris Cavness), and oversees warehouse operations.

“I like to think I’ve made an impact on how well the cooperative is doing, and it’s continued success in the future after my retirement,” Wesley says. “I have lead and been a part of many projects that have made our system more reliable, easier to maintain, and made growth possible. I see technology being a driving force in the future of WCEC, and have worked to ensure that our staff is ready to take advantage of technology as it becomes more advanced and cost-effective.”

Outside of his career, Wesley has always felt a strong desire to give back to the community.

“I try to make El Campo a better place to live by serving in Rotary and as a member of several municipal boards including the City Electrical Board, Planning & Zoning, and the City Development Corporation. I’ve also served on ECISD’s Board of Trustees and the El Campo Chamber board.”

Wesley goes on to say that working at WCEC has allowed him to serve in the community. As part of the cooperative way, the co-op encourages community involvement.

“There many aspects to love about working at the co-op, but by far the most important are the people. I have the privilege of working side by side with the finest group of employees that can be found. This includes our local Board of Directors and GM/CEO that truly care about our members, employees, and the community,” he says.

Wesley and his wife, Cindy, have two grown daughters and sons-in-law along with a beautiful one-year-old granddaughter. Taylor, Grant and Grayson reside in Montgomery. Paige and Joel reside in Rosenberg.

He says, “I am extremely proud of my family, their beliefs and their accomplishments.”

Wesley and Cindy enjoy living in El Campo. He says, “I like the small town atmosphere. I can get to work in ten minutes, since traffic jams are minimal. We have great EMS, fire and police departments, and school district. Yet, what really makes El Campo tick, is the generosity the citizens show towards each other. We all support the raffles and fundraisers and do whatever we can to help those less fortunate within our community.”

In his free time, Wesley enjoys hunting, fishing and shopping for antiques. 

“I also love chilling at the bay with Cindy, family and friends,” he says. “I’m looking forward to retirement and time to simply enjoy life with Cindy who is my best friend.”

When asked about his dream travel destination, he replies, “I’m a history buff so I would probably travel to France and Germany to see the Eiffel Tower, Normandy Beach (the site of the D-Day invasion), the Rhine River, and the city of Nuremberg.” 

The best advice he’s ever received is that nothing stays the same forever, so always be ready for change. He shares this advice with his co-workers, “First and foremost, always work safe. Then, develop great work ethic, strive to learn every day, cultivate a good attitude, and be a team player.”

Wesley describes himself as a perfectionist, determined, and resilient. We couldn’t agree more. Wesley is truly a great asset to the cooperative, and his years of service have helped shape WCEC into the organization it is today. 

We are proud to have Wesley on your HOME TEAM.