Clark County REMC hired Jessica Kaufer to support members with questions about solar and other forms of renewable energy. But on her first day, CEO Jason Clemmons asked her to be the lead writer for a federal AMI grant, a challenge far outside her original job description.
It was definitely a trial by fire, recalled Kaufer, whose background was previously working with doctors and surgeons. But I was determined to exceed expectations. I saw it as an opportunity to learn the co-op from the inside out, not just learning how things worked, but why they mattered.
Kaufer delved into the co-ops history, learning about its strategic goals and future plans. And while the co-op didnt receive the grant, she says the experience, while intense, was priceless.
I had to rely on colleagues I had just met to gather the information I needed to write the grant, she said. But that truly showed me what makes a co-op different. Working at a co-op is unlike any other job Ive had. Theres a spirit of collaboration and support that makes coming to work every day something I genuinely look forward to,
I absolutely love it here.
From there, Kaufers role quickly expanded. Initially hired as an emerging technology specialist focused on member education, she expanded her scope to key accounts and took the lead on handling data center and large-scale project inquiries. To boost her knowledge, she earned her NRECA Key Accounts certification and joined the economic development committee at the local chamber of commerce.
Kaufer has also enhanced the cooperatives outreach efforts by expanding its seminar offerings, launching member engagement panel discussions to foster strong connections and communication.
Her efforts have gained recognition beyond state lines. She was recently invited to speak at the statewide MMSC in Illinois, where she presented strategies for developing and maintaining key account relationships.
Additionally, she was selected to serve on a NRECA panel focusing on managing data center inquiries.
The energy industry is changing faster than ever, and co-ops like ours must adapt quickly to meet the changing needs of our members. Jessicas versatility, initiative, and willingness to take on complex challenges have helped our co-op not just keep up, but in many cases lead the way, said Jason Clemmons, CEO.
In her two years at Clark County REMC, Kaufer has gone from co-op novice to articulate ambassador. Her dedication and ability to take on a new wide range of responsibilities have undoubtedly positioned the co-op as a more forward-thinking, member-focused organization, improving both its internal operations and its impact on the community, said Jennifer Merriman, the co-ops human resources and benefits coordinator.
Author: Victoria A. Rocha | Published July 30, 2025, in RE Magazine
