On August 12, Consolidated Cooperative’s Board of Trustees officially announced that they selected current COO, Tim Applegate, to serve as President and CEO after Phil Caskey’s retirement.
“As the utility industry continues to change, Tim’s experience, steady leadership, and dedication to our cooperative values will be a great asset,” stated Consolidated’s Board Chair, Michael Struck. “We are confident that Tim will continue to build upon the solid foundation that Phil created during his time as CEO.”
Applegate started at Consolidated as a field technician in 1997. Over the years, he worked his way up from field technician to Field Engineer, Director of Engineering, Vice President of Engineering and Operations, and most recently, Chief Operating Officer, a title he has held for over seven years.
“In Tim, the board has wisely selected a leader who has shown the utmost integrity, wise judgment, and a commitment to serving others, along with the rare ability to relate well with just about anybody,” shared Caskey. “I am overjoyed when I think of what the future holds for Consolidated, its employees, and our members and customers.”
Applegate stated that Consolidated’s focus and vision will not change when he steps into the role: “Consolidated will remain diligent in enhancing the exceptional value of the services we provide, improving the quality of the relationships we build, empowering the vitality of our communities, and meeting the evolving needs of our members.”
Consolidated plans for Applegate to officially take the reins after Caskey’s retirement, which is projected for February 2027.
“I am thankful to our Board of Trustees for this opportunity, and for their confidence not only in me, but also in our employee group,” shares Applegate. “I would not be where I am today without the hard work and support of our senior leadership and the Consolidated team. I am excited for this challenge, and I am looking forward to what the future has in store.”
