Steuben County REMC has welcomed a new leader. Steven Kahle joined the cooperative as Chief Executive Officer on Feb. 2, bringing nearly two decades of experience in the electric cooperative industry.
Kahle began his cooperative career at Paulding Putnam Electric Cooperative in Ohio, where he spent 14 years and advanced from staking technician to engineering manager. During that time, he was actively involved in community initiatives, including chairing the cooperative’s Honor Flight Committee. The group raised more than $164,000 to support local veterans traveling to Washington, D.C., to visit memorials built in their honor. The project was recognized nationally with the NRECA Electric Cooperative Purpose Award in 2018.
Most recently, Kahle served as director of engineering and operations at Mid-Ohio Energy Cooperative in Kenton, Ohio. In that role, he oversaw engineering and operational planning while leading initiatives aimed at improving reliability, strengthening infrastructure, and enhancing communication with cooperative members.
Beyond his professional experience, Kahle is committed to community involvement. He volunteers through his church, mentors individuals through a prison ministry program, and has coached youth sports for many years.
“Steuben County REMC has a strong tradition of serving its members and communities with integrity and reliability,” Kahle said. “I’m honored to work alongside the employees, board of directors, and membership to continue building a strong future for the cooperative and the communities we serve.”
“Steven’s strategic vision and commitment to cooperative principles make him an excellent fit for our cooperative,” Gary Shough, Steuben County REMC board chair, said. “His experience and passion for serving members will help lead Steuben County REMC into the future.”
Q&A
WHAT INTERESTS YOU MOST ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY TO LEAD STEUBEN COUNTY REMC?
I feel that it’s an honor and privilege to serve and lead the REMC and its membership. I believe in and value being part of something great and want to continue our long history of providing quality services to our members and the communities that we serve.
WHAT EXPERIENCES IN YOUR CAREER PREPARED YOU MOST FOR THIS ROLE?
I’ve been working in the electric cooperative industry for 18 years now. In my career, I’ve been blessed enough to work my way up through the cooperative in various roles. So, in the process, I’ve been involved in all the aspects of the cooperative which makes me well rounded in all areas.
WHAT ARE YOU MOST LOOKING FORWARD ABOUT BECOMING PART OF THE STEUBEN COUNTY COMMUNITY?
I’m looking forward to meeting new people and organizations that make our community great because it’s the people that make the community special.
WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE MEMBERS TO KNOW ABOUT YOU AS YOU BEGIN THIS ROLE?
The thing that excites me about this role is the opportunity to know and meet the members that we serve as well as becoming a part of this community. So, whenever you see me in the community, say ‘hello.’
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY DOING OUTSIDE OF WORK?
When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time with my family and doing activities outdoors. My wife and I have been married for nearly 20 years, and we are blessed to be parents to three teenage boys. Spending time and sharing adventures together as a family is a true pleasure of mine.
