One of the many advantages of being a cooperative member-owner is having a say in how the cooperative is run. The clearest example is our annual Director Elections. Over the summer, Haywood EMC held this year’s election, where our members cast their votes for new directors. During this year's election, District 5 elected a new Director, Michael P. Ferguson.

Mr. Ferguson, a lifelong Haywood County resident, brings 30 years of experience in operations, energy management, and leadership. He has managed large-scale production and utility operations, directed major budgets, and led teams of hundreds. He now focuses on redevelopment and operational initiatives that support Western North Carolina's future.

A graduate of Pisgah High School and the University of Tennessee, Michael is also a sixth-generation local farmer. He looks forward to representing cooperative members in Northern Haywood County.