Leading the Way: Jones-Onslow EMC Appoints New CEO

Jones-Onslow EMC is honored to introduce the new Chief Executive Officer (new CEO), Mr. Gary Ray, who officially assumes his role on October 30. Mr. Ray joins our co-op family with an impressive background, through years of dedicated service within the electric cooperative network.

A steadfast commitment to service has marked Mr. Ray’s career. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from N.C. State University (he later earned an MBA from N.C. State as well), he joined Jones-Onslow Electric Membership Corporation in July 1987 as an Electrical Engineer. Through innovative thinking and his dedication to JOEMC, he was later promoted to Vice President of Engineering.

In 2008, Mr. Ray started a new chapter in his electric co-op career when he joined Albemarle EMC as Manager of Engineering. He served in the position for a couple of years and in May 2011, Mr. Ray was promoted to Executive Vice President and General Manager. Under his leadership, he led the cooperative through numerous challenges and changes in the ever-evolving electric utility industry. Mr. Ray’s knowledge and dedication to grid reliability led to the construction of several critical substations in the Albemarle service area. In addition, he championed a culture of safety, resulting in improved safety inspections and an impressive record of no lost-time accidents for 10 years.

Behind every great leader is a strong support system. Gary is married to Gloria Futrell Ray, a native of Richlands, NC, and they have two adult sons, Shea and Teylor. Their family values and sense of community align perfectly with the cooperative principles we hold dear.

“With great pride, we announce Gary Ray’s appointment as our new Chief Executive Officer,” said John Pierce, JOEMC’s Board of Directors Chairman. “The board, after careful consideration, unanimously chose Gary to lead our cooperative into the future. We are confident his experience, vision, and commitment to our members will drive us toward continued success.”