Celebrating DEC's Warehouse Team on National Supply Chain Day

Behind every energized line, every completed service order, and every successful restoration effort at Delaware Electric Cooperative is a team working steadily behind the scenes to make it all possible: our warehouse and purchasing professionals.

On National Supply Chain Day, we recognize the critical role this team plays in keeping our operations running smoothly and efficiently — ensuring our crews have exactly what they need, when and where they need it.

From managing daily work orders to supporting large-scale construction and maintenance projects, the warehouse team’s responsibilities are both wide-ranging and essential. As Assistant Controller Lorraine Scotton explains, “Not only do we fulfill daily work orders for our crews, but we also pull annual work plans for bid jobs and take care of our everyday contractors. Along with receiving and stocking purchase orders containing bolts to transformers, we also make sure to count our inventory quarterly.”

That work extends far beyond the main facility. Bart Tucker, S&E Controller, notes that the team also maintains inventory at multiple substations, ensuring readiness across the system: “We also do quarterly trips to four of our depots, located at substations, to make sure they are stocked.” Add in managing deliveries, shipments, and major project support, and it’s clear the warehouse is a hub of constant activity.

Leading the broader effort is Manager of Purchasing and Stores Ben Hastings, who oversees procurement and warehouse operations. “Without material and tools, the work stops,” Ben says  — capturing just how foundational the team’s role is.

Balancing supply and demand is no small task, especially in today’s complex economic environment. “You want to make sure we have plenty of material on hand for work to be completed, but at the same time you don’t want to be overstocked and the inventory not turning,” Ben explains. That balance directly impacts efficiency — and ultimately helps the Cooperative maintain affordable rates for members.

Every piece of equipment used in the field flows through the warehouse team’s hands. “We make sure we have the right materials and tools as well as the right amount to get the job done,” Ben adds.

This effort is supported by a broader team whose contributions are just as vital. Ben highlights the importance of collaboration, noting that “Kim plays a crucial role for our department. She’s involved with month-end closing with accounting, our day-to-day needs with invoicing and material transactions, and works closely with the fleet shop and many other departments.”

Together, this team ensures that every crew in the field is set up for success — and that DEC continues delivering reliable service to our members.

On National Supply Chain Day, we thank our warehouse and purchasing team for their dedication, precision, and behind-the-scenes impact. Their work may not always be visible, but it is absolutely indispensable.