The distinction between Cohen and many of us is that he’s about to have a lot more time on his hands to pursue whatever fair-weather activity he chooses.
Having spent the past 34 years with Community Electric Cooperative, Cohen will retire in early June after reaching his 62nd birthday in mid-May. For the past year, Cohen has served as CEC’s meter and apparatus chief, capping a career in which he started as a groundman driving trucks and diggers, worked as an apprentice lineman, achieved journeyman lineman status, and then transitioned to another demanding role as meter and apparatus technician.
“This has been a good place to work. I’ve enjoyed my ride,” Cohen says. “I’m just ready for some of my time. Sixty-two and through is my motto!”
In recognition of his remarkable 34-year journey, Community Electric Cooperative President and CEO, Steve Harmon, commented,
"Rick’s 34-year journey—from his early days as a groundman to his leadership as our meter and apparatus chief—embodies the spirit and dedication that makes Community Electric Cooperative a family. His honest, hardworking approach and steadfast commitment to our member-owners have set a benchmark for excellence. As he steps into a well-earned retirement, we celebrate not only his accomplishments but also the legacy he leaves behind, inspiring us to always put our community first. Congratulations, Rick, and enjoy every moment of your next adventure."
As ready as he is for retirement, the Windsor native – his family relocated from Norfolk when he was 10 – says he never entertained thoughts of leaving CEC after joining the cooperative.
“It’s close to home, I am making good money, and I’ve been very satisfied,” he says. Cohen sought the job with Community Electric largely because he didn’t care much for the overnight stays that he had to make on distant projects for the electrical contractor he assisted with line work.
Particularly in his role as a meter and apparatus specialist, Cohen has been able to support CEC’s member-owners without extended travel. More commonly, he has worked to ensure the reliability of equipment and systems that communicate with one another – whether that be at individual residences, CEC’s five substations, or its 15 communications towers.
Reflecting on his career with CEC, Cohen says he hopes that member-owners appreciate the work and intentions of staffers in support of the cooperative’s mission.
“We have good, honest people and an honest company that is straightforward and not giving members a line of bull,” he says. “When we’re saying something, it’s with their best interests at heart.”
Cohen tries to get five miles daily on his bicycle and, when the weather cooperates, he also spends time fishing on the Blackwater and Nottoway rivers. All the better, Cohens says, that his wife and brother enjoy fishing.
“I’ll just go with whoever wants to go when I want to go. When it’s extremely cold or hot, you can find me in the house or in the garage fiddling. It’s hard to believe it’s been 34 years, but I’m glad I’ve made it.”