DIRECTOR'S CORNER

By Roy Van Atta, District 4 Director, CCD

Artificial Intelligence, or AI, may sound like something reserved for big tech companies. Still, it’s becoming an increasingly valuable tool for businesses of all kinds—including electric and gas cooperatives like The Energy Cooperative. At its core, AI helps computers perform tasks that typically require human thinking: recognizing patterns, making predictions and offering helpful suggestions based on large amounts of data.

Across the cooperative world, some organizations are already putting AI to work. A Wisconsin cooperative, for example, created a private, in-house AI tool called “VoltWrite” that helps staff with writing and technical tasks in a secure, confidential environment. It’s a great example of how AI can enhance—not replace—the people who keep co-ops running every day.

Practical Applications, Real Benefits

At The Energy Cooperative, our leadership team is exploring how AI could help us better serve our members in smart, practical ways. Imagine being able to predict equipment failures before they cause outages. AI could analyze patterns in system performance and alert our crews ahead of time. It might also help us review drone images to spot vegetation that could interfere with power lines—making our tree trimming efforts more efficient and targeted.

AI could one day support our member services team by quickly organizing incoming messages or identifying energy usage trends to help shape future programs and pricing options. These tools could free up staff to focus on what matters most—serving our members with care and responsiveness.

Careful, Member-First Innovation

We want to be clear: neither your Board nor your leadership team is jumping in headfirst.

Every new tool we consider must align with The Energy Cooperative's long-standing values—safety, reliability, privacy and trust.

AI is not a replacement for people; it’s a way to support them and improve our service.

As technology evolves, we’re committed to exploring it with wisdom and purpose—always with you, our members, in mind. AI won’t change who we are. It might just help us do what we’ve always done—only better.

Get To Know Your Director

• Roy has been involved with Licking County government since 2012 and currently serves as the Treasurer of Licking County.

• He served as a licensed Funeral Director for 25 years and then joined the Granville Investment Group as a Financial Planner.

• Roy has been happily married to his wife, Patti, for 35+ years, and they have two adult children.