Caddo Kiowa Technology Center (CKTC) is proud to name Western Farmers Electric Cooperative (WFEC) as their 2025 Partner in Progress. Being in such a rural area of Oklahoma, CKTC is fortunate to not only partner with WFEC, but continue to foster community development and educational opportunities. CKTC has been able to provide essential training to help ensure the health and safety of WFEC employees and WFEC has provided instrumental assistance and guidance in the development of the newly implemented Lineman Training Program.
WFEC, a generation and transmission cooperative, has been in existence for 80 years, and has grown into Oklahoma’s largest locally owned power supply system. It was organized in 1941 when western Oklahoma rural electric distribution cooperatives found it necessary to secure an adequate power supply at rates farmers and rural industrial developers could afford. In April 1942, Anadarko was chosen as the location for WFEC’s headquarters.
WFEC's generating facilities are located at Mooreland, Anadarko, Hugo, and Lovington, New Mexico. WFEC has a total power capacity of more than 2,400 MW when purchased hydropower is included. They own and maintain more than 3,800 miles of transmission line to more than 330 sub and switch stations. Members consist of 21 distribution cooperatives, located in Oklahoma and New Mexico, with their service territories covering the two states, in addition to portions of Texas and Kansas. WFEC also serves Altus Air Force Base.
WFEC has not only experienced substantial growth opportunities since its 1941 launch, but has also maintained a well-balanced and diversified portfolio of energy resources that includes owned facilities and capacity, in addition to energy provided through power purchase agreements. These resources reflect a mix of technologies and fuel types. The diversity in generation mix helps reduce exposure to changing market conditions, helping to keep rates competitive.
Over the last five years, CKTC has delivered 33 training sessions for more than 570 people. These training sessions included Respirator Fit Testing, Truck Driver Training, Load Securement, AAA Driver Improvement and CPR/AED/First Aid to name a few. WFEC also uses the Washita Valley Leadership Program as a vital self-development program for employees. Each year, they are committed to sending employees through the program. This vital, valuable partnership with WFEC has led to CKTC obtaining more than 4,542 contact hours.
This partnership between CKTC and WFEC is mutually beneficial. Recently, WFEC provided valuable support and collaboration as Western Farmers was instrumental in the development of the newly implemented CKTC Lineman Training Program. WFEC provided valuable curriculum development guidance, pole instillation, and partnering to allow student internships. Caddo Kiowa Technology Center is honored to have such a longstanding relationship with Western Farmers Electric Cooperative – a true partner in history and in progress – progress to make our area of Oklahoma better and brighter for generations to come.