RAPPAHANNOCK ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE Rappahannock Electric Cooperative (REC) was formed in 1980 when the Virginia Electric Cooperative and Northern Piedmont Electric Cooperative merged. The member-owned utility has stood out for its exceptional contributions throughout the community. REC leads eff orts in education and sustainability, delivering programs that teach businesses and individuals how to adopt environmentally conscious practices, and expanding broadband access into rural areas. While providing electric service to 180,000 connections in parts of 22 Virginia counties, they have been leaders in customer service. REC has also worked to diversify its workforce by encouraging women to explore careers as line workers and pursue STEM-related fi elds.