Who are you?
My name is Kylee Coleman.
How long have you worked with cooperatives?
I’ve worked for the Colorado Rural Electric Association for almost 10 years.
Describe your role.
I have the privilege of working with Colorado electric co-op communicators to share their co-op’s story and produce their co-op’s monthly publication, Colorado Country Life. As the editor of the statewide magazine, I get to plan content, work with freelance writers and designers, and work with talented individuals across the state to localize their content.
I’m one of three people in CREA’s communications departments, so I also pick up any other duties as assigned. This can be anything including proofreading emails, choosing and ordering swag (ask me for tips, I am very good at this!), writing copy for annual meeting materials, or designing newsletter layouts.
I love my job and feel really lucky and grateful to be in this role.
What do you enjoy about working with cooperatives?
When I started working at CREA almost 10 years ago, I had little knowledge about co-ops in general, and I had no clue what an electric co-op was (even though I had been a member of one for years!)
However, I learned very quickly that working with cooperatives is pretty special. I love the collaboration that happens when cooperative communicators get together. Cooperatives are innovative by design, so it’s also fun to get new ideas, workflows, designs, and more … you know, the classic “admire and acquire.”
When did you join CCA? Why?
I joined CCA in 2023 because I wanted to expand my network.
Did anything surprise you about CCA upon joining?
I really appreciated learning that there are so many co-ops across so many different industries.
How has CCA supported you in your career?
In addition to everyone being so welcoming and encouraging, I’ve found a lot of value from webinars, connector calls, and the Institute.
What are your hobbies and interests?
My husband and our kids are my world and my greatest accomplishment. Our three boys are young adults now, and so our lives have shifted a little bit in the past few years. Our oldest son Ben, who lives with Down syndrome, still lives with us, so we joke that we’re on the Empty Nester+ Plan.
Lately, we’ve gotten really into bowling. We are at our local lanes every day of the week and they know us by name and know our drink orders (Diet Pepsi).
I also like to walk, play board games, word games, and other games; and am trying to get better at tap dancing.
Do you have a “bucket list”? What are some of the things on that list?
Speaking of bowling … I’d like to bowl at least a 200 by the end of the year.
Give us something about yourself that is surprising or that most people don’t know.
Did I mention I’m really into bowling? J Aside from that, I LOVE connecting with people over music. Currently, Yuja Wang’s Rachmaninoff Piano Concerto No. 2 in C Minor, Op. 18 is on repeat, but The 1975, Muse, Radiohead, The Sundays, The Story, Skrillex, Jackie Evans, and the Motels are on heavy rotation.
What advice would you give to professional communicators just starting their careers?
Be curious. Ask for help. Don’t be shy to share your ideas. Always be open to new opportunities. And prioritize self-care — your work will thrive if you are well and thriving!
I’d love to hear from my fellow CCA members! Email me Here.
