MMUA's Willetts Receives National Award

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MMUA's Willetts Receives National Award

June 21, 2017

MMUA Director of Training and Safety Mike Willetts was among eighteen individuals and 10 utilities recognized for service to the American Public Power Association and the public power industry during a June 20 awards ceremony at the Association’s National Conference in Orlando, Florida.

Willetts received the Harold Kramer-John Preston Personal Service Award, which recognizes individuals for their service to the American Public Power Association. Among his many contributions have been as a leader in the development of the Public Power Lineworkers Rodeo and the APPA Safety Manual. Willetts is pictured here with Andrew Boatright, APPA Chair and Deputy Director of the Independence, Missouri Power & Light (left) and Wally Haase, APPA chair-elect and General Manager of the Navajo Tribal Authority (right) of Fort Defiance, Arizona.  

Two other Minnesotans were honored: Owatonna Mayor Tom Kunz and former Grand Rapids Public Utilities General Manager Tony Ward.

Ward received the James D. Donovan Individual Achievement Award, which recognizes people who have made substantial contributions to the electric utility industry, with a special commitment to public power.

Kuntz received the Spence Vanderlinden Public Official Award, which recognizes elected or appointed local officials who have contributed to the goals of the American Public Power Association.