Leadership, Friendship and Service
Q&A with retiree Lance Lockerman
After nearly four decades of service, Lance Lockerman is retiring from Choptank Electric Cooperative. In this conversation with Communications Specialist McKayla Kiernan, he reflects on the journey, the people and some lessons learned along the way.
Q: As you prepare to retire, what thoughts come to mind?
I want to begin by expressing my gratitude to everyone who has helped me reach this milestone. From the leaders who placed their trust in me, to the farmers who would pull my truck out across a muddy field so I could make a critical repair to restore power — every experience mattered. Every person I’ve had the privilege of working with and learning from has left a lasting impact.
Q: You’ve held a variety of roles at Choptank. How did those positions shape your leadership style over the years?
Each role came with its own lessons, and through them I gained a deeper understanding of the challenges people face across the organization. I’ve always believed that good leaders create an environment where others can succeed. For me, that meant hiring the right people, giving them the tools and training they needed and trusting them to think for themselves. I was there to offer guidance when needed, but also wanted to give them the confidence to lead on their own.
Q: What were your main responsibilities as Vice President of Operations?
I was responsible for several critical areas of the cooperative. That included overseeing: line crews; contractors; safety, training and compliance; vegetation management; warehousing and supply chain; fleet services; and facilities management. I was fortunate to work alongside dedicated professionals who brought their best every day.
Q: Looking back, what stands out as your favorite part of working for Choptank?
Without a doubt, it’s the people. The bonds formed over the years — through day-to-day work and the challenges we’ve weathered together — have led to friendships that will last a lifetime. In my 39 years at Choptank, I’ve worked through ice storms, floods, hurricanes, tornados, and even a derecho. Each storm taught us something new.
Q: What advancements during your career made the biggest impact on operations and service?
Two major enhancements stand out. First, the integration of automation through fiber technology, which puts information at your fingertips and reduces drive times during outages. Second, the improvements in materials used for underground cable, which have significantly boosted reliability.
Q: What are you most looking forward to in retirement?
More time with family and some longer-term vacations. I’ve truly enjoyed my time at Choptank. It’s been an honor to be part of the organization’s story.