After 40 Years, Board Director Buckelew Retires

After four decades of distinguished service, Nick Buckelew retired from the Trico Board of Directors in April.

“On behalf of the Trico Board, I would like to thank Nick for his dedicated service to Trico for more than 40 years,” Board President Lawrence Hinchliffe said. “He has always put Members first and made decisions based on what he believed was in the best interest of Trico and its Members. We will miss his leadership, experience and sense of humor.”

With one year remaining on Mr. Buckelew’s term, the Trico Board interviewed six candidates to find someone to serve on the Board. Directors typically serve a three-year term, and the appointed Member will have the option to run for re-election at the end of the year.

Darrell Birkhimer was appointed to represent District 3 (Avra Valley, Picture Rocks). Mr. Birkhimer retired in December 2021 from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association after nearly 40 years of electric utility experience. He has worked for investor-owned utilities, taught powerline schools and worked for three electric cooperatives across seven states. He was a Journeyman Lineman for 12 years and has 15 years of senior-level management experience.

“I have dealt with the challenges electric cooperatives face today,” Mr. Birkhimer said. “I would like to offer my experience serving Trico Members. I am convinced the electric cooperative business model is alive and well, able to meet the challenges.”