As we continue to grow our fiber broadband division, our team continues to grow as well. This reflects our ongoing commitment to serving our members more effectively and meeting the increasing demands of our day-to-day operations for electric members as well as our new fiber customers. Each new team member brings a unique set of skills and fresh perspectives that will strengthen our organization and help us build a stronger, more dynamic cooperative for the future.
BEN HICKS | RIGHT-OF-WAY & EASEMENT COORDINATOR
Hicks joins us in a brand-new role — our very first right-of-way and easement coordinator — and we’re thrilled to have him on board.
He lives in Payne with his wife and four-year-old stepdaughter, sharing their home with quite the crew: a husky, three cats, and 12 chickens. He was drawn to Paulding Putnam by the chance for a shorter commute and a close-knit workplace — and he’s already finding both.
With nine years of experience in vegetation management, Hicks most recently served as supervisor of forestry operations for NIPSCO in Goshen and Angola, Indiana. At Paulding Putnam, he’ll be managing tree contractors, working with members to acquire easement rights, and handling real property transfers and permit applications.
What’s he most looking forward to? Getting out in the community and meeting interesting people across the service territory.
When he’s not at work, you’ll find Hicks camping, backpacking, or doing pottery — and if the moment calls for it, he can even juggle. His favorite motto sums up his thoughtful approach to work and life: “Measure twice, cut once.”
MATT JAY | BROADBAND TECHNICIAN
Jay joins us as a broadband technician, which includes helping with fiber installations and troubleshooting as our co-op continues to expand its broadband services.
He comes from a close-knit, humor-filled family — the kind where there’s never a dull moment. He and his girlfriend live in Van Wert with their two sons, who are spitting images of their parents and always keep life interesting. Their household also includes Barrett the dog and a three-legged cat named Rue.
Jay was drawn to Paulding Putnam for its small-town feel and the opportunity to be part of the exciting fiber expansion. He brings nearly 20 years of experience from the manufacturing industry, where he worked as an electrical technician and team leader.
Outside of work, he loves spending time with his family, hunting, fishing, riding ATVs — pretty much anything outdoors — and watching sports. (Go Bucks! As for the Reds… well, let’s just say it’s complicated.)
Jay lives by a piece of advice from his grandpa: “Don’t take any wooden nickels.” As a kid, he thought wooden nickels were a real threat — but as he grew up, he realized it was just wise advice for life.
ERIC BENNETT | BROADBAND STAKING TECHNICIAN
Bennett joins us as a broadband staking technician to help determine the best routes and materials needed to bring high-speed fiber internet to our members’ homes.
He lives in Fort Wayne, Indiana, with his wife, Amber. Together they have a busy and proud household that includes three stepchildren (ages 17 to 29), a dog, and a cat — and they recently celebrated a big milestone by welcoming their first grandbaby.
With most of his career spent in telecom and cable, Bennett was eager to join a growing company using the latest technology to build an advanced internet network. When he learned Paulding Putnam was growing its fiber-optic network, he knew it was an opportunity he didn’t want to miss.
When he’s not working, Bennett enjoys traveling, cooking, grilling, and smoking meats. He also practices traditional archery. A fun fact? He competes in an annual smoked brisket contest every September — and has taken home first place in both 2020 and 2022. Bennett’s favorite quote says it all: “Be yourself— everyone else is taken.” — Oscar Wilde
