Tri-County EMC has been awarded the title of 2025 Industry of the Year by the Wayne County Development Alliance (WCDA). This honor recognizes the cooperative's contributions to economic development, job creation, and community growth throughout Wayne County and eastern North Carolina.
The award was presented at the WCDA Annual Banquet held at Walnut Creek Country Club on October 30, 2025. Local leaders and business representatives gathered to celebrate industry milestone awards and industries shaping Wayne County’s economic future.
“This recognition truly reflects the dedication of the people who make Tri-County EMC what it is,” said Tri-County EMC General Manager Mike Davis. “For 85 years, our cooperative has been committed to enhancing the quality of life, supporting local businesses and industries, and empowering the communities we serve. We share this honor with every employee, board member, and member who has contributed to our mission.”
The Industry of the Year Award celebrates companies and organizations that demonstrate excellence in economic leadership, community involvement, and investment in the region. Tri-County EMC’s consistent growth, innovative approaches, and community partnerships have played a crucial role in attracting new businesses and strengthening infrastructure across Wayne, Lenoir, and Duplin counties.
Over the years, Tri-County EMC has backed initiatives such as Operation Round Up, Bright Ideas Education Grants, a scholarship program, and zero-interest loans for local fire departments and businesses through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant program. All these efforts aim to improve the lives of residents in eastern North Carolina.
“This award is not just about one individual,” Davis noted. “It reflects the effort of our employees, board members, and members who have contributed to this incredible cooperative over the past 85 years.”
This recognition comes at a significant time for Tri-County EMC, as the cooperative celebrates its 85th anniversary in 2025. Founded in 1940, Tri-County EMC has evolved from energizing its first lines in rural Wayne County to serving over 27,000 members across Wayne, Duplin, Lenoir, Johnston, Jones, Sampson and Wayne counties, continuing its mission of providing safe, reliable, and affordable electricity to its members.
“What a fitting way to conclude Cooperative Month and to celebrate 85 years of powering progress,” Davis added. “This honor reinforces that when we work together, great things happen.”