Meet Brent Shay

Hendricks Power Board Member and Area 1 Director

Where do you live?
My wife Terri and I live in Guilford Township of Plainfield, which is Area 1.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I recently retired and look forward to spending more time hunting and golfing with my son. I also enjoy gardening and taking on projects around the house. Above all, I cherish spending quality time with our kids and grandkids.

Tell us briefly about your background and what led you to join the board. 
We have been Hendricks Power Cooperative members for over 40 years.  A friend approached me about running for a board position, believing that my business skills and desire to serve the community would be an asset. I have always had a passion for giving back, and I saw this as a great opportunity to be a voice for our members. I am currently in my third year on the board of directors and plan to run for a second term in July. I have learned so much during my first term, and I’m eager to continue serving our members and contributing to the success of the cooperative.

Which Cooperative Principle most strongly resonates with you?
All seven Cooperative Principles guide us in ways that set us apart from other electric utilities, always putting the needs of our members first. The principle that resonates most with me is Education, Training, and Information. Since joining the board three years ago, I have come to deeply appreciate how we continuously work to educate ourselves and our members. This ensures that we all have the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions for our members and our cooperative's future.  

What is your biggest contribution to the board?
My biggest contribution to the board has been offering a unique perspective, combining leadership and business knowledge gained from my years in wholesale distribution with a family-owned company that grew into a Fortune 100 organization. Growing up in a small rural farming community has helped me better understand the needs of both rural and suburban areas, allowing me to serve all members more effectively.