(Oct. 1) Northwest Public Power Association is pleased to announce Jacob Knudsen of Salem Electric (Ore.) as the winner of the 2026 Champion of Communications Award. The award honors an individual who has demonstrated a lifetime commitment to the public power industry, communication, and public involvement. NWPPA surprised Knudsen with the award during the 2026 Northwest Innovations in Communications Conference at The Marcus Whitman Hotel in Walla Walla, Washington. Mason PUD 3’s Sheila Corson, who served as the 2026 NIC Chair, presented the award to Knudsen on Sept. 23.
Knudsen began his career in public power as a metering technician in 2006 at the City of Redding in California. There, he developed a deep understanding of how utility systems work and how to translate complex concepts into accessible member communications.
In 2011, he joined Coos-Curry Electric Cooperative as its member services supervisor and was later promoted to marketing and member services manager. He championed CCEC’s communications and shaped the co-op’s strategy for energy efficiency, electric vehicle charging, and member services. As a founding board member of the CCEC Charitable Foundation, he built its communications strategy around storytelling and connection. Throughout his career, he has mentored communicators who credit him with helping them find their own path in the industry.
“I came into communications without formal training, uncertain if I belonged,” said CCEC Senior Communications Specialist Kelsey Bozeman. “Jacob’s response was to believe in me, support me, and trust me to take risks. He changed his mind based on evidence, modeling the curiosity that makes people want to do their best work.”
Knudsen took on his current role at Salem Electric in 2021. As principal author of Salem Electric’s monthly newsletter and leader of the communications team, he has transformed how the utility engages its members. Knudsen has built a culture where every member interaction is a communications opportunity. His leadership approach, which involves questioning assumptions, researching thoroughly, and improving legacy processes, has resulted in more efficient operations and stronger member loyalty.
The NIC Planning Committee selects recipients of the Champion of Communications Award based on accomplishments through at least 10 years of marketing and communication experience; at least 20 years of service to the industry; and promotion of public power through efforts such as community service. Current or former employees of NWPPA member utilities are eligible. Recent recipients of the award include Sarah Johnson of Clatskanie PUD (2024), Theresa Phillips of Lassen Municipal Utility District (2023), and Libby Calnon of Hood River Electric & Internet Co-op (2022).
