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Tullahoma Utilities Authority (TUA) is proud to announce that JT Northcutt, a long-serving member of the TUA Board, has been awarded the Power of Excellence Award by the Tennessee Municipal Electric Power Association (TMEPA) at their annual meeting held in Nashville on July 10.

The Power of Excellence Award recognizes senior staff, board members, and community leaders who demonstrate exceptional dedication to Public Power and the communities they serve. Northcutt was nominated by TUA President and CEO Allen Potter for his unwavering leadership, public service, and commitment to the mission of community-owned utilities.

Northcutt has served on the TUA Board since 2016, including two years as Chairman. During his tenure, he helped shape the utility’s long-term strategy, improve system reliability, and expand community engagement. Known for his integrity and professionalism, Northcutt played a key role in aligning TUA’s planning efforts with the needs of Tullahoma residents.

His influence extends beyond the local level. Northcutt served two terms on the American Public Power Association’s Policy Makers Council, where he advocated for the interests of public power utilities in national policy discussions.

In addition to his utility service, Northcutt has a long history of civic involvement. He served as a Tullahoma City Alderman from 1993 to 2002 and has held leadership roles on several local boards, including Blood Assurance, American City Bank, and the Tullahoma Planning Commission.

With over four decades of experience in quality assurance and performance improvement at the Arnold Engineering Development Center (AEDC), Northcutt’s expertise and dedication to excellence have made a lasting impact on both the utility industry and the Tullahoma community.

“JT has been a tremendous supporter of both TUA and me personally,” Potter said. “His leadership, mentorship, and encouragement have meant so much. He leads with humility, integrity, and purpose—and this award is a very well-deserved recognition of his impact.” 

About TUA LightTube

TUA LightTube is a community-owned public utility providing electric, water, wastewater, and broadband services to the Tullahoma area. As a public utility, TUA LightTube exists to serve people—not profit—delivering safe, reliable, and affordable services that power daily life and support the well-being of the entire community. Guided by local leadership and accountability, TUA LightTube reinvests in infrastructure, innovation, and programs that strengthen Tullahoma today and for generations to come. 

About TMEPA

The Tennessee Municipal Electric Power Association (TMEPA) is a membership association of 60 municipal and county electric power providers that serve more than 2.4 million homes and businesses across Tennessee. TMEPA members provide power to two-thirds of the state’s electric customers and distribute three-quarters of the electricity sold in Tennessee. Their mission is to advance the overall success of Tennessee’s municipal utility systems.