Leadership transitions for two electric co-ops

President/CEO Don Taylor (right) has retired after 18 years of service at Corn Belt Energy Corporation. Ryan Campbell (left) has been named his successor.

Corn Belt Energy Corporation’s (CBEC) board of directors unanimously selected Ryan Campbell as the co-op’s next president/CEO, following the retirement of former President/CEO Don Taylor.

Taylor retired after 18 years with CBEC, where he led the co-op since 2013. Throughout his tenure, he helped guide the cooperative through growth and change while fostering a culture centered on safety, innovation, financial responsibility and member service.

“CBEC is an outstanding cooperative with the focus to serve the members,” Taylor said. “The entire team is dedicated to serving the members. There is a lot of change in the electric utility world, and I am confident the co-op will continue to meet members’ needs into the future.”

Campbell brings more than 33 years of experience with CBEC to his new role. Throughout his career, he has served in a variety of operational leadership positions, most recently as vice president of electric distribution. His extensive knowledge of the cooperative, dedication to employees and commitment to member service make him well-positioned to lead CBEC.

Campbell said he is honored by the opportunity to serve as the co-op’s next president/CEO. “It is a privilege to continue serving the members, employees and communities of CBEC,” Campbell said. “Our cooperative has a strong foundation, and I look forward to building on that legacy while remaining focused on our mission of providing safe, reliable and affordable energy to the people we serve.”

Danny Hopfinger

Tri-County Electric Cooperative (TCEC) has announced that Danny Hopfinger has been selected as the co-op’s next general manager.

Hopfinger has served TCEC and its members faithfully throughout his years with the co-op. His experience, leadership and roots in southern Illinois will help guide TCEC as it continues to provide safe, reliable and affordable electricity while preparing for the challenges and opportunities ahead.

“I am honored and humbled to be selected as the next general manager for TCEC,” Hopfinger said. “I look forward to working with our employees and the board to continue providing high-quality service to our members.”

Hopfinger most recently served as the co-op’s director of engineering. He succeeded interim manager Bob Hunzinger, who led TCEC during its search for a new manager. Hunzinger retired in 2025 as president/CEO of Eastern Illini Electric Cooperative after 11 years in the role and more than 40 in the industry.