Jackson, TENNESSEE – Monte Cooper became the new Chief Executive Officer of Jackson Energy Authority (JEA), today.

Monte is only the sixth CEO in the 62-year history of the company.

Jim Ferrell retired as JEA President and Chief Executive Officer, January 31.

Monte began his career with Jackson Energy Authority while working as a co-op engineering student from 1992-1995. After graduating from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville in 1997, Monte was offered a position with Memphis Light Gas & Water as a Project Engineer.

He returned to JEA in March of 1998 as an Electric Project Engineer and has since been promoted to various management positions.

He was serving as Senior Vice President of the JEA Electric Division before taking on his new role as CEO.

Monte earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the University of Knoxville, a Master’s degree in Business from the University of Tennessee at Martin and is a registered Professional Engineer.

JEA has around 400 employees and serves approximately 40,000 customers.

Monte, his wife Shea, and their children Trey, Cassidy and Will, are long-time residents in the community.

Jim Ferrell retired after 34 years of service at the Jackson Utility Division and Jackson Energy Authority.

(PHOTO: Monte Cooper)