OWENTON, Ky. – The Board of Directors of Owen Electric Cooperative is pleased to announce the appointment of Melie Vincent as the cooperative’s new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective December 1, 2026.
Melie brings extensive utility industry experience, having served as Strategy and Business Development Advisor for Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO), Director of Operations at Oklahoma Municipal Power Authority, and, most recently, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Power Supply Officer at Platte River Power Authority. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology from the University of Southern Indiana and an Executive Master of Business Administration in Energy from the University of Oklahoma.
Melie Vincent succeeds Michael Cobb, who is retiring after 37 years of dedicated service and leadership to Owen Electric Cooperative and its member-owners.
Board Chairman Alan Ahrman said the Board conducted a thorough search process and is confident in the selection of the cooperative’s next chief executive.
“We are excited to welcome Melie to Owen Electric Cooperative,” said Ahrman. “Throughout the selection process, she demonstrated the leadership, industry knowledge, and commitment to cooperative values that are essential to serving our members and guiding Owen Electric into the future. We are confident she will build upon the strong foundation that has been established and look forward to working with her to achieve the goals and objectives necessary for the cooperative to succeed in this competitive and ever-changing electric industry.”
Ahrman also expressed the Board’s sincere appreciation for Michael Cobb’s leadership and contributions during his tenure with the cooperative.
“On behalf of the Board of Directors, our employees, and the members we serve, I want to thank Mike for his outstanding dedication to Owen Electric Cooperative,” Ahrman said. “Mike’s leadership has helped strengthen our cooperative, improve service to our members, and position Owen Electric for long-term success. His commitment to the cooperative principles and the communities we serve has left a lasting impact, and we wish him and his family all the best in retirement.”