Jackson Energy Cooperative Announces CEO Retirement and New Leadership Appointment

 McKee, KY – [August 6, 2025] – Jackson Energy Cooperative, a Touchstone Energy® Cooperative serving over 53,000 members across 15 counties in southeastern Kentucky, announced that Carol Wright, President and Chief Executive Officer since January 2013, will retire effective October 17, 2025, after more than 35 years of service in the utility industry. The Board of Directors has appointed Ryan Henderson, currently Vice President of Engineering & Operations at Jackson Energy, as her successor. 

During Wright’s tenure, Jackson Energy grew and deepened its community engagement—achieving strong reliability and value for its members, supporting and leading economic development partnerships such as SKED (Southeast Kentucky Economic Development Corporation), FOCUS (a five-county economic development group in southeast Kentucky), and has earned recognition for numerous community projects. 

Safety was a top priority for Wright, as Jackson Energy has a longstanding reputation as one of the nation's top-performing cooperatives based on national safety metrics. 

“During my tenure at Jackson Energy, I am proud of what our team has accomplished together. It is an appropriate time to transition to new leadership, and I look forward to the cooperative’s continued success,” said Wright. “Our dedicated employees are truly committed to serving and improving the lives of our members.” 

“It is an honor to be entrusted with the leadership of the electric cooperative in my hometown,” said Henderson. “Under Carol’s leadership, Jackson Energy has built a solid foundation. I look forward to working with the Board and our team to continue providing safe, reliable, affordable energy and empowering our communities. The members and employees of Jackson Energy hold a special place for me, and I am deeply humbled by the opportunity to serve them.” 

The Board extends its sincere gratitude to Wright for her dedication and leadership.