Umatilla Electric Cooperative

08/31/2026

As we wrap up UEC's 2026 internship program, we're introducing our final intern spotlight of the summer, Jacob Finch.

Jacob is a senior at LeTourneau University studying electrical and computer engineering with a concentration in mechatronics. During his time with UEC's engineering department he assisted with various data management projects.

“Having an internship, especially one at UEC, was invaluable for my professional development. It provided networking with those who are more experienced than me, and it gave me an idea of where I want to be 10 years down the road.”

Thank you, Jacob, and thank you to all our 2026 interns for your hard work, dedication, and contributions throughout the summer. We wish each of you the very best in your future endeavors!

To read more on Jacob's internship experience, visit our website! https://www.umatillaelectric.com/news-releases/meet-the-intern-jacob-finch/

08/29/2026

When someone at Umatilla Electric Cooperative (UEC) needs information, there is a good chance Chris Peterson can help find it.

With experience across several areas of the cooperative, Chris has developed a broad understanding of how UEC’s operations work together to serve its members.

If you want to learn more on Chris's journey at UEC, visit our website:
https://www.umatillaelectric.com/news-releases/behind-the-switch-chris-peterson-power-supply-analyst/

08/27/2026

We want to hear from you! Our member survey is currently open through Sept. 10, and we invite all UEC members to take a few minutes to share your feedback.

You can find your personalized survey invitation in your email inbox from [email protected].

Your feedback helps us better understand your experience and identify ways we can continue improving how we serve our members.

Check your inbox and complete your survey by Sept. 10.

08/26/2026

This summer, Abrianna Lomeli joined Umatilla Electric Cooperative as a Public Relations Intern. An incoming student at Oregon State University, where she plans to double major in International Business and Marketing, Abrianna spent her internship supporting youth programs, creating communications materials, and assisting with a variety of public relations initiatives.

“My internship at UEC has been an incredible experience that has given me valuable hands-on experience in public relations and marketing while working alongside an amazing team, and I'm excited to carry the skills and knowledge I've gained into my future career!”

Thank you, Abrianna, for spending your summer with UEC. We wish you the best as you continue your education and career journey! To read mroe on Abrianna's internship experience, visit our website. https://www.umatillaelectric.com/news-releases/meet-the-intern-abrianna-lomeli/

08/25/2026

UPDATE at 3:36 PM: All members who were affected by the outage should now be restored. We thank you for your patience as our crews worked safely to restore power. If you are still experiencing an outage or service disruption, please call us at (888) 465-5701.

As of 2:54 p.m., approximately 139 members west of Umatilla are experiencing an outage. Crews are currently patrolling the line to begin making repairs. For more information, please visit our Outage Center.

We know it’s hard when the power goes out. We work hard to make sure that doesn’t happen, but when it does, you can report your outage and stay up-to-date...

08/24/2026

Today we celebrate National Hydropower Day!

Thanks to the Columbia River system and our partnership with Bonneville Power Administration, Umatilla Electric members benefit from hydropower every day.

Hydropower plays an important role in powering our homes, farms, businesses, and communities across Northeast Oregon, helping meet the energy needs of our members today and into the future.

Want to learn more about the important role hydropower plays in delivering energy to our members? Visit our website to read more. https://www.umatillaelectric.com/news-releases/celebrating-national-hydropower-day/

08/22/2026

As summer fades, students are preparing new backpacks and school supplies for the beginning of the 2026-2027 school year. Ensure you’re prepared for school-related traffic and aware of students.

Each school day, millions of children ride school buses. When you see a school bus slowing down or stopping, it’s not just the bus that you need to have your eyes on, but the surrounding area too. Children wait at least several feet away from a bus and often cross the street when they’re boarding or getting off the bus. This is why you must stop for school buses, and don’t attempt to pass.

Whether you're behind the wheel or waiting at the bus stop, staying mindful of school bus safety helps protect students and keeps our communities safe. Visit our website for more tips!
https://www.umatillaelectric.com/news-releases/safety-first-watch-for-students-crossing/

08/20/2026

UPDATE: As of 2:32 P.M., All members have been fully restored. If you are still experiencing an outage or service disruption, please contact us at (888) 465-5701.

—

UPDATE 11:09 a.m.: Onsite crews have determined that the outage was caused by a downed power line. Crews have made progress, restoring power to 525 members. They will continue working safely to restore service to the remaining members affected by the outage. We appreciate your patience and understanding.

--

At 9:28 a.m. this morning, 528 members are experiencing an outage in the Hermiston area. Crews are enroute to determine the cause. Please visit our outage center for more information.

We know it’s hard when the power goes out. We work hard to make sure that doesn’t happen, but when it does, you can report your outage and stay up-to-date...

08/20/2026

Joseph Markwith is no stranger to Umatilla Electric Cooperative. This summer marked his third year as a UEC intern. After beginning his internship journey in UEC's Information Technology Department while still in high school, Joseph transitioned to the Engineering Department as he pursued a degree in electrical and computer engineering at Oregon State University.

Throughout the summer, Joseph supported engineering operations, system studies, and data analysis projects while gaining valuable hands-on experience in the utility industry.

“Being an engineering intern has given me the opportunity to apply what I have learned in the classroom to real utility projects that directly support reliable service for our communities. The experience has strengthened my technical skills and prepared me for a career in the utility industry.”

Thank you, Joseph, for your continued contributions to UEC. We look forward to seeing all that you accomplish in the future! Read the full spotlight on our website: https://www.umatillaelectric.com/news-releases/meet-the-intern-joseph-markwith/

08/19/2026

Join Our Team!

Umatilla Electric Cooperative is looking for a dedicated Right-of-Way (ROW) Utility Crew Member to help keep our power lines safe and our communities connected. In this essential role, you’ll support the inspection, maintenance, construction, and fire mitigation efforts needed to keep our rights-of-way clear and compliant.

Your work will involve live-line tree trimming, brush clearing, and other critical tasks to ensure safe and reliable electricity delivery. You’ll be responsible for cutting, piling, spraying, and disposing of trees and vegetation to maintain proper ROW clearance - all while upholding the highest safety standards in accordance with State, Federal, RUS, and UEC guidelines.

If you’re safety-minded, hardworking, and ready to make a real impact in your community, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply today and power your future with UEC! Full description and online application available here:
https://www.umatillaelectric.com/jobs_category/uec-careers/