Pierre, SD — The South Dakota Rural Electric Association (SDREA) was honored to present two 2025 Legacy of Leadership Awards at the association’s annual meeting in January. This year, the award highlighted two individuals, Ken Wetz and Jerry Hammerquist, whose remarkable careers and commitment have significantly shaped the electric cooperative industry in South Dakota.

SDREA General Manager Steve Barnett presented the awards, stating, "Today, we celebrate not just professional achievement but profound commitments to our communities. These leaders have not only enhanced their organizations but also dedicated themselves to the well-being of the places they serve."

Ken Wetz: A native of Vale, South Dakota, Ken’s career began on the family sheep farm, where he professionally sheared sheep for 25 years.

After earning a bachelor’s degree from Black Hills State University, he began his career as a teacher at Newell High School, where he was named "Teacher of the Year" in 1972. In 1979, Ken transitioned to Butte Electric Cooperative, starting as Manager of Member Services and later becoming General Manager in 1990, a position he held with distinction.

Throughout his career, Ken has served on numerous boards and committees, playing an instrumental role in guiding electric cooperatives toward a brighter future. He served as President of the South Dakota Rural Electric Manager's Association and the Rushmore Electric Manager's Advisory Committee. His leadership also extended to the national level, where he served on the National Rural Electric Association’s Management Advisory Committee, representing North and South Dakota and Minnesota, and held all officer positions within that committee. His accolades, including being named the Volunteer of the Year and the Governor's Economic Development Volunteer of the Year, reflect his significant contributions to the electric cooperative network in South Dakota.

Jerry Hammerquist Jerry’s career at West River Electric began in 1984 and spanned nearly four decades. During this time, Jerry dedicated 38 years to serving on the board, with 20 of those years as Board President. Under his leadership, the cooperative experienced remarkable growth: the number of meters surged from 7,800 in 1984 to 20,500 by 2024, revenue increased from $7.2 million to $47 million, and the team expanded from 35 to 60 employees – a testament to his effective leadership and vision.

Jerry's influence was also strongly felt at Rushmore Electric, where he served on the board for 26 years, including 14 as chairman. Additionally, he played a pivotal role in the South Dakota Rural Electric Association as an SDREA director and as chairman of the Action Committee for 27 years. His efforts here further demonstrate his deep commitment to advancing rural electric goals.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Jerry’s commitment to community service was evident through his volunteer work. He spent many years as a judge at the Western Junior Livestock Show and various county fairs. His profound dedication to agriculture was recognized when he was named the Black Hills Stockman of the Year and the Rapid City Chamber of Commerce Ag Producer of the Year.

The South Dakota Rural Electric Association proudly honors Ken Wetz and Jerry Hammerquist, whose legacies are linked to the progress of South Dakota's rural communities. Their example sets a high standard for leadership that embodies the spirit of the Legacy of Leadership Awards.