Celebrating 14 Years of Leadership and Service

At the end of 2025, President and CEO Mike Henke will retire after serving the Cooperative for 14 years. First as Chief Financial Officer (CFO), then moving into the role of President and CEO, Mike has been a cornerstone of the Cooperative’s success, guiding the organization through growth, change, and opportunity.  His dedication and leadership have left an enduring impact on our members, employees, and community.

Mike began his journey with the Cooperative in 2011 as CFO. During this time, he played a key role in the Alliant acquisition, the development of the Minnesota Three, LLC solar array partnership with MiEnergy and Freeborn Mower Electric Cooperative, and the negotiation of a new territorial agreement with Rochester Public Utilities that fairly compensates the Cooperative for annexed service territory. His commitment to financial stability and strategic planning has laid
the groundwork for future innovation.

In 2019, Mike stepped into the role of President and CEO, leading with vision and integrity. Under his leadership, the Cooperative has continued to embrace modernization, enhance member engagement, and foster a culture of collaboration and safety. His steady leadership has shaped the organization’s trajectory and positioned us for continued success.

In his role as President and CEO, Mike has also ensured the voice of our membership is heard in various industry organizations by serving on boards and committees including:

• ChargEV, LLC Board of Directors Network of electric vehicle charging stations throughout the country facilitated by Dairyland Power Cooperative.
• Dairyland Power Cooperative’s Managers Association, including serving as chair of the Financial Planning and Rates Committee and also chair of the Marketing, Strategies and Energy Services Committee People’s Energy Cooperative’s primary power supplier.
• Heartland Security Services Board of Directors Home security services company owned by 13 rural electric cooperatives including People’s Energy Cooperative.
• Rochester Area Economic Development, Inc. Board of Directors Local economic development organization based in Rochester.
• Minnesota Rural Electric Association’s
  Communications and Legislative Advisory Committee Subcommittee of the statewide association of rural electric cooperatives.
• Minnesota Three, LLC Board of Directors Partnership between MiEnergy, Freeborn Mower Electric Cooperative, and People’s Energy Cooperative managing the utility-scale solar array located in Oronoco.
• Southern Minnesota Energy Cooperative Board A cooperative of rural electric cooperatives formed in 2013 to purchase service territory from Alliant Energy.

Mike is known for his commitment to the Cooperative Principles and his unwavering focus on people – both employees and members. As we celebrate Mike’s 14 years of service, we extend our deepest gratitude for his contributions and leadership. His legacy will continue to influence the Cooperative for years to come.  Thank you, Mike, for your dedication and the positive impact you’ve had on our community.