Todd-Wadena Electric Cooperative (TWEC) proudly celebrates a momentous achievement by one of its most esteemed leaders, Mike Thorson, who has reached the incredible milestone of 50 years serving on the board of directors. Since 1974, Mike has played a pivotal role in guiding and shaping the cooperative’s mission and vision, ensuring the members of TWEC benefit from reliable and affordable electricity. His wisdom and experience have been invaluable to not only TWEC, but also Great River Energy (GRE) where he has served as a director since 1976. He spent several years serving as Board Chair for both GRE and TWEC.
Over the course of his half-century of service, Mike was part of countless strategic decisions and major initiatives. One of his most notable contributions was his involvement with GRE in the groundbreaking of Coal Creek Station and later its sale, both monumental events in the history of the energy industry. His steady hand and leadership have helped both TWEC and GRE navigate the changing landscape of energy generation and distribution, balancing innovation with the cooperative principles that remain central to both organizations.
Beyond his contributions to energy policy and strategic planning, Mike’s personal dedication and commitment to his community is equally inspiring. Raised in Wadena and New York Mills, Mike has deep roots in rural Minnesota. He and his wife, Eloise, now retired, live along the scenic Long Prairie River. Together, they raised twin sons, Erik and Karl, and are proud grandparents. The family’s farm, located between Browerville and Staples, is now managed by their son Erik, who has carried on the family tradition of operating a thriving fruit and vegetable business serving farmers’ markets throughout Central Minnesota.
Mike’s journey has been shaped by his early life on the farm and his education at the University of Minnesota, where he earned a degree in Agricultural Economics. His career also includes three years of active duty in the U.S. Army, where he further developed his leadership skills. His dedication to lifelong learning is reflected in his completion of the Credentialed Cooperative Director, Board Leadership, and Director Gold programs from the National Rural Electric Association, as well as the Blandin Leadership program.
Over the years, Mike has shared his expertise with a number of organizations, including the Staples-Motley School Board, Todd County Economic Development Board, Minnesota Fruit and Vegetable Association Board, and the Cooperative Power Board before it became GRE. He remains active in his community today.
Reflecting on his service, Mike said, “I work hard to keep up with the ever-changing energy industry where new technology is constantly being adopted and customer expectations continue to change. I try to balance my decisions on how to best keep TWEC competitive and reliable with a concern for the environment.” His leadership has been instrumental in keeping TWEC rates among the lowest in GRE’s cooperative network, thanks to the participation of TWEC members in load control programs.
Mike’s unique blend of education, experience, and common sense has been a guiding force for TWEC over the past five decades. As the cooperative continues to grow and adapt to changing regulatory environments, member needs, and environmental concerns, Mike’s leadership remains as crucial as ever. His contributions have left a lasting legacy, and the entire TWEC community celebrates this remarkable achievement. According to Mike, he’s not done yet!
Here’s to Mike Thorson—50 years of dedication, leadership, and service!
