What happens when a childhood tornado scare sparks a lifelong mission to protect communities from disaster? 

In this episode of the Western Watts Podcast, hosts Elizabeth Shilling and Julia Eshelman interview Pete Slintak, the Business Resiliency Manager at Tri-State. Pete discusses his role in preparing for and responding to natural or cyber disasters, all driven by his passion for crisis management and community service. 

The conversation covers various incidents, including the recent Lee Fire, emphasizing the importance of early detection, inter-agency coordination, and having robust emergency plans. Pete highlights the significance of maintaining strong community relationships and mutual aid among cooperatives to enhance regional disaster response. The podcast concludes with insights into future challenges, such as cyber threats and environmental changes, and the importance of continuous preparedness and adaptability.

Through it all, Pete shows that resilience begins long before the sirens sound.

How do four Relationship Managers cover nearly 200,000 square miles of member service territories?

In this special National Cooperative Month episode, we sit down with Jay Mendoza, Tri-State's Member Relations Manager, to explore the heart of cooperative service: Relationships. Hear how his team builds trust, supports members, and strengthens our community every day. 

What does it really take to power our communities without polluting them?

In this episode of the Western Watts Podcast, hosts Elizabeth Shilling and Julia Perry sit down with Chris Reichard, Senior Environmental Policy Analyst at Tri-State, to uncover the surprisingly fascinating world of environmental compliance in the electric utility industry. From decoding complex regulations to protecting air, water, and wildlife, Chris shares how his childhood curiosity evolved into a career safeguarding both reliability and sustainability.

You’ll hear:

• How environmental compliance directly impacts grid reliability
• Behind-the-scenes stories of conservation efforts you’ve probably never heard of
• Why monarch butterflies are now part of Tri-State’s environmental strategy

Whether you're an energy insider or just curious about how utilities balance power and preservation, this episode delivers eye-opening insights with heart and humor.

What if the key to managing power consumption, wildfires, and infrastructure planning was hidden in a map?

Join hosts Elizabeth Shilling and Julia Perry on the Western Watts Podcast as they dive into the world of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) with Rich Garcia, the Geospatial Data Systems Manager at Tri-State. With 15 years at Tri-State, Rich has witnessed the evolution of GIS technology and its critical role in maintaining and advancing the company's infrastructure. From mapping transmission lines to developing innovative applications like outage management and easement tracking, Rich shares how his team ensures operational efficiency and strategic planning across Tri-State's vast service territory. Discover how GIS is transforming data into actionable insights and making daily operations smoother for all departments involved. Tune in to explore the technology that keeps the lights on and much more!

The Complex World of Energy Markets with Tim Cusick

In this episode of Western Watts, Elizabeth Shilling and Julia Perry sit down with Tim Cusick, the Power and Gas Marketing Supervisor at Tri-State. Tim provides deep insights into the complexities of energy markets, discussing everything from managing diverse energy sources and balancing supply and demand, to the potential impact of new technologies like batteries and regional transmission organizations (RTOs). He also shares his personal journey in the energy industry, highlighting the dynamic nature of his role and how it interconnects with broader trends and market operations. Don't miss this behind-the-scenes look at how energy supply chain management works to ensure reliable, affordable, and responsible power for all.

Safety isn’t a checklist—it’s a mindset that transforms organizations. 

Join Chad Orvis, our VP of Safety and Workplace Strategy, on Western Watts as we explore how Tri-State’s award-winning safety programs go beyond compliance to create unity, boost performance, and aim for zero injuries. Hear real-life success stories that can reshape how your team approaches workplace safety, because whether in the field or at a desk, safety is everyone's business.

What if upgrading your home’s energy systems could lead to significant savings and improved comfort? 

 In this episode of Western Watts, hosts Melissa Swinehart and Julia Perry sit down with Pete Rusin, Senior Electrification Manager at Tri-State, to explore the transformative impact of energy efficiency and electrification programs across Colorado, New Mexico, Wyoming, and Nebraska. Discover how initiatives like beneficial electrification, demand response programs, and on-bill repayment are not only reducing utility bills but also enhancing the quality of life for rural communities. Pete shares real-world success stories, including the remarkable improvements at Mammoth Farms, illustrating how strategic energy upgrades can revolutionize operations and community well-being.

Tune in to learn how Tri-State is leading the charge in powering the West with innovative solutions that make a tangible difference.

What does it really take to keep your lights on—and your power bill low—in a changing energy world?

In Episode 6 of the Western Watts Podcast, hosts Elizabeth Shilling and Julia Perry sit down with Lisa Tiffin, Senior Vice President of Energy Management, and Matt Fitzgibbon, Senior Manager of Planning Analytics at Tri-State. The conversation dives into the high-stakes world of electric resource planning: the behind-the-scenes work that keeps the grid reliable, affordable, and increasingly sustainable. They unpack the challenges of integrating renewables and battery storage, the economic trade-offs of energy decisions, and the essential role local communities play in shaping the future of power.

What does it take to power rural America?

Join host Elizabeth Schilling as she uncovers bold ideas and personal stories at the Tri-State Annual Meeting with cooperative leaders Molly Lynn, Ruth Marks, Corey Robinson, and David Spradlin. From cutting-edge technology and legislative wins to community-driven wildfire strategies, hear how these innovators are reshaping the future of energy. Tune in for a dynamic blend of grassroots spirit and forward-thinking insight!

What’s it like balancing land stewardship with the responsibility of powering rural communities? 

In this episode of Western Watts, host Elizabeth sits down with Corey Robinson from Empire Electric, a board member and owner representative to the Tri-State Board. Corey shares his passion for energy and preserving the land and opens up about the unique challenges of delivering reliable, affordable electricity to rural areas. From his first annual meeting to Tri-State’s DC Fly-in, Corey emphasizes how face-to-face conversations shape better decisions for the future of the cooperative.