Jonesboro, Ark. (April 2025) — Craighead Electric Cooperative is proud to announce Kaden Hartley of Bay High School as the recipient of the cooperative’s 2025 High Voltage Lineman Scholarship.
The scholarship provides financial support for students pursuing training in the High Voltage Lineman Technology Program at Arkansas State University–Newport. Upon completion of the one-year certification program, recipients are guaranteed a 10-week paid internship with Craighead Electric, offering valuable on-the-job experience and mentorship from seasoned lineworkers.
Kaden, the son of Matt and Shanta Hartley, is a senior at Bay High School. A three-sport athlete, Kaden plays basketball, baseball, and golf and has earned numerous awards including 3x Most Improved, 3x All-Conference, All-Region, Sportsmanship, Leadership, and Hustle awards. He also completed a 10-hour OSHA Construction Safety and Health course.
In addition to his school achievements, Kaden runs his own lawn care business, maintaining 15 yards biweekly. He is also committed to serving others—volunteering with tornado cleanup efforts in Wynne, participating in food drives, and giving his time at a local nursing home. In his application essay, Kaden wrote: “There are several things that have driven me to be a lineworker. My brother is currently a three-year employee at City Water and Light in Jonesboro—he gave me quite a bit of interest in the job. I enjoy hunting and fishing, so working outdoors would be a perfect fit. Also, making an impact on members and giving back to them means a lot to me. Heights have never been a fear of mine, and I feel that I am a great candidate for this scholarship because I’m hardworking, dedicated to my education, and committed to making a positive impact on people around me.”
“This scholarship is one way we’re preparing the next generation of lineworkers who will serve our members with dedication and pride,” said Justin Etter, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Craighead Electric Cooperative. “Kaden stood out for his work ethic, drive, and community spirit—qualities that reflect what it means to be a part of the cooperative family.”
Craighead Electric launched the High Voltage Lineman Scholarship to help meet the growing demand for trained utility lineworkers across Arkansas. For more information about the program, visit www.craigheadelectric.coop.
About Craighead Electric Cooperative:
Craighead Electric Cooperative is a member-owned electric utility serving more than 31,000 meters across eight counties in northeast Arkansas. The cooperative is committed to providing safe, reliable, and affordable electricity while investing in the communities it serves. Incorporated in 1937, the cooperative operates offices in Jonesboro, Walnut Ridge and Paragould. The locally owned and managed organization has 104 employees. The cooperative’s wholly owned subsidiary, empower, serves nearly 16,500 internet subscribers.
For additional information, contact:
Lindsey Bowman, Director of Marketing & Communications
870-932-8301 • lbowman@craigheadelectric.coop • www.craigheadelectric.coop
