OPD5 Board member earns NRECA Board Leadership Certificate
OPD5 board member Richard Jones was awarded the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) Board Leadership Certificate during a board meeting held April 15 in Mesquite.
The Board Leadership Certificate recognizes utility trustees and directors who have demonstrated a strong commitment to continuing education and effective governance in the electric utility industry. The certification is awarded through the NRECA’s Director Education Program and builds upon prior director training by focusing on advanced leadership, strategic planning, policy development, financial oversight, and emerging issues facing electric utilities.
To earn the certification, trustees must complete a series of courses and continuing education credits designed to strengthen their knowledge of electric cooperative governance and utility operations. The program emphasizes leadership skills, fiduciary responsibilities, power supply issues, cybersecurity awareness, risk management, and long-term planning to help board members make informed decisions on behalf of the communities they serve.
“Richard’s long career at OPD5 gives him a unique and experienced perspective as a board member,” said OPD5 CEO/General Manager MeLisa Garcia. “Since he joined the board, he has been dedicated to building on that experience by gaining training and skills as a board member. The knowledge and experience he has gained through the NRECA leadership program will continue to benefit OPD5 and our customers.”
Jones has served on the OPD5 Board of Trustees since 2019 with a focus on maintaining reliable electric service, supporting responsible infrastructure investment, and representing the interests of district residents and businesses.
NRECA is the national service organization representing the nation’s electric cooperatives and public power districts, providing education, training, and advocacy for utility leaders across the United States.
“We congratulate Richard on this professional achievement and his continued commitment to serving the district and its customers,” Garcia said.