Ten years ago, Mandy Stamper walked through the doors of Henry County REMC with a leap of faith and no background in the utility industry. Today, she’s not just part of the team, she’s a cornerstone of the cooperative.
Stamper recalls that the job she had at that time did not offer much in terms of opportunity or growth. A coworker suggested I apply at REMC. I took the chance and here I am, 10 years later.
Now an engineering assistant and dispatcher, Stampers role is dynamic and foundational. From processing new service paperwork and filing easements across eight counties to billing accidents and covering dispatch duties, she juggles a variety of behind-the-scenes tasks that help keep the co-op running smoothly.
I dont think people have any idea how many steps it takes to get a new service up and running, she said with a smile. Theres paperwork, county filings, staking, flagging, locating, and finally getting it to the crew. Its a process, but a rewarding one.
Her dedication to learning and growing within the company is evident. Stamper completed the HEATS (Hoosier Energy Apprenticeship, Training and Safety) program and, more recently, started staking school, where shes just one test away from completing her training. Staking school has been eye-opening, she said. Its a lot of field knowledge and not knowing as much from that side of the industry, it really helped me see the bigger picture.
Stampers growth has been personal as well as professional. A self-described shy person, she credits her time at REMC with helping her find her voice. I never thought Id be able to speak to members or coworkers the way I can now. Its really changed me, she revealed.
The culture at Henry County REMC has played a significant role in her staying power. It feels like a family here, she said. If someones child is sick or someone has surgery, people donate money, food, gift cards, its just incredible. I dont dread coming to work. We get along, we joke, we support each other. Its more than coworkers. Its friendships.
Stamper (center) poses with co-workers Debbie Poor (left) and Anita Irvin.
That camaraderie shines brightest during storms when teamwork becomes critical. Stamper remembers one particularly intense event: We worked 16 hours straight, calling in multiple contractors. It was chaos, but we pulled together. Everyone worked in sync dispatch, supervisors, and linemen. That kind of teamwork is rare.
Beyond work, Stamper is a proud wife and mom. Her sons have taken part in REMCs Summer Cooperative Camp, a program she loves for how it exposes young people to trade work. And although she doesnt play golf as much these days due to two back surgeries, Stamper proudly holds the title of being the only girl from her high school to make it to regionals in golf.
So, what does this 10-year milestone mean to her?
“It went by fast, she reflected. But the fact that I still enjoy it after 10 years? That says something. Its not just a job to pay bills. I genuinely enjoy coming here.”
As for whats next, Stamper said shes happy right where she is. I want to finish staking school. Thats my big goal for now. But Im always open to trying new things!
Heres to a decade of service, growth, community, and whatever the next chapter holds.
Stamper and her family at the 2024 HCREMC Christmas party.
