Oconto Falls Municipal Utilities’ not-for-profit wholesale power provider, WPPI Energy, presented utility foreman Jason Valentine with its Shining Star Award during WPPI’s annual member gathering held Sept. 17.
The award recognizes those who “go above and beyond” for their community.
“I’m grateful for this honor,” Valentine said. “I try every day to make our utility, and the community it serves, even better.”
Shining Star Award recipients are an example of hard-working utility staff. The award is given to those who show growth, proven leadership and a dedicated willingness to strategic initiatives aimed at improving the community they serve.
Valentine started at OFMU in 1995 as an assistant water and wastewater operator. He then began a lineworker apprenticeship and reached journey-level status in 2002, later taking on the role of line foreman. Valentine stepped in as interim utility manager twice in his career.
OFMU Manager Beth Rank said Valentine has shown exceptional leadership and built his technical expertise by taking on increasing responsibility throughout his career.
“Jason’s willingness to step up when needed, mentor others and ensure the reliable operation of our locally owned utility has made him invaluable to Oconto Falls,” Rank said. “His leadership has been instrumental in maintaining a high level of service that our customers have come to expect from us.”
