Every employee at Umatilla Electric Cooperative (UEC) contributes to something larger than their individual role. Through our “Behind the Switch” series, we share the stories of employees who help deliver the reliable service our members depend on every day.
For many UEC members, a conversation with Josie Sepulveda is one of their first interactions with the cooperative. Whether helping establish service, answering account questions or assisting during a move, Josie has spent more than two decades helping members navigate important moments with confidence and care.
Her commitment to service is rooted in a lifelong connection to the communities UEC serves. Josie began her career in the early 1980s at an onion farm in Echo and later spent 12 years at Taggares Farms, now RDO Equipment Co., near Boardman. There, she held a variety of responsibilities, including running parts, supporting scale operations and assisting with translation. Those experiences taught her the value of hard work, adaptability and serving people from all walks of life.
Josie joined UEC in March 2002 and has lived in Boardman since 2001. Today, she serves as a Member Service Representative I in the Boardman office, assisting members with starting and stopping service, updating accounts, processing transfers and answering questions both in person and over the phone.
Over the years, her role has evolved alongside advances in technology. Tasks that once occupied much of her day, such as processing payments, have become automated, allowing staff to focus on more complex member needs and personalized assistance. Having experienced that transition firsthand, Josie brings patience and understanding when helping members adapt to changes.
For many members, establishing electric service is just one task on a long moving checklist. Josie understands that even a simple phone call can ease the stress of a transition, and she works to ensure every member feels welcomed and supported. Her days remain busy with calls, office visits and account updates, but her focus has never changed: helping members receive the service they need when they need it.
The most rewarding part of her work is helping people.
“I like helping people,” she said. “When someone leaves with their questions answered or their problem solved, that’s a good feeling.”
After more than 24 years with UEC, Josie remains a trusted and welcoming presence. Her story reflects the dedication, experience and commitment to service found throughout the cooperative—and serves as a reminder that behind every interaction are employees who take pride in serving the communities they call home.