MIKE BJORKLUND

EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT AND GENERAL MANAGER, FLORIDA ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES ASSOCIATION, TALLAHASSEE

The Florida Electric Cooperatives Association is a statewide trade association composed of 16 distribution and two generation and transmission electric cooperatives. These co-ops cater to rural and suburban areas in 57 of Florida’s 67 counties, providing essential services to about 2.7 million residents. FECA handles many functions on behalf of its members, such as regulatory and legislative matters, organizing mutual aid after major storm events and operating a self-insurance fund. Bjorklund has been at the helm of the organization since 2017.

EDUCATION: Troy University (BS)

IF I WERE GOVERNOR: Without a doubt, I would outlaw hurricanes.

INSPIRING FLORIDIAN: Jack Peeples, attorney and Korean War veteran, is a legend who has done multiple things to enhance the business community and Floridians' lives. He is a near-genius who can assess situations and determine the most beneficial outcomes. Jack’s uncanny problem-solving ability is the truest measure of an outside-the-box thinker.

READING: I recommend Power magazine for an industry periodical and Larry Sabato's Crystal Ball for political information, particularly on the federal level.

MOTIVATIONAL MANTRA: Climb the mountain so you can see the world, not so the world can see you.

WHAT I’VE LEARNED: The first loss is the cheapest.