Minnesota Rural Electric Association names Cody Raveling director of safety services
Raveling most recently served as assistant director of education and outreach at the Minnesota Municipal Utilities Association, where he worked closely with utility safety professionals and helped lead technical training and workforce development programs for electric utility employees.
In addition to his work in utility safety and education, Raveling has operational experience as a lineworker for Marshall Municipal Utilities and continues to serve as a firefighter for the city of Marshall, providing direct insight into the risks faced by utility and emergency response personnel.
In his new role, Raveling will lead MREA’s safety services program, overseeing a team of five that supports member cooperatives through safety training, compliance coordination, regulatory guidance and field-focused safety services.
“Cody brings a strong combination of hands‑on utility experience, safety education and leadership,” said Darrick Moe, president and CEO of MREA. “Safety is a core priority for electric cooperatives, and Cody understands that it starts with practical training, clear communication and a deep respect for the work our crews do every day.”
At MMUA, Raveling played a key role in developing and delivering safety and technical training programs, with a focus on field safety, grounding practices and real-world instruction. Raveling said he looks forward to working with electric cooperatives across Minnesota to continue building strong safety cultures.
“I am excited to join MREA and support the electric cooperatives that power communities across the state,” Raveling said. “Safety is about people, preparation and consistency, and I look forward to working alongside members to help ensure every employee goes home safe at the end of the day.”
Raveling succeeds Anthony Lenz, who is leaving MREA to become chief executive officer of Mille Lacs Energy Cooperative. Moe recognized the contributions of the outgoing director of safety services.
“Anthony has been a strong advocate for safety and leadership development during his time at MREA,” Moe said. “We appreciate his commitment to our members and wish him continued success as he transitions into a CEO role.”
Lenz has worked with Raveling in the past and shared that he is a good choice to continue a strong safety program.
“Cody has earned the respect of utility professionals across the region,” Lenz said. “His operational background and safety mindset make him a great fit for this role, and MREA members will benefit from his approach.”
Raveling begins his duties with MREA on May 18.