Last Updated on July 27, 2026 5:49 pm
Blue Ridge Energy has announced that Chief Operating Officer Glenda Christian will retire in June 2027, concluding a distinguished four-decade career in the fuels industry. A comprehensive transition plan is underway to ensure continued operational excellence within the cooperative's Propane and Fuels subsidiary.
In conjunction with Christian's retirement, the cooperative has named Blake Canterbury as Chief Operating Officer-Elect for Propane and Fuels.
Christian has played a pivotal role in shaping the growth and success of Blue Ridge Energy's subsidiary business since its inception in 1998. Originally from Sanford, she began her career with Lee-Moore Oil Company in 1986, then joined Beall Oil and Propane after relocating to Lenoir in 1994, remaining with the organization as Blue Ridge Energy launched its first subsidiary in 1998. Since being named COO in 2005, Christian has guided the subsidiary through significant technological advancements, market expansion and a steadfast focus on customer service and operational excellence.
“Glenda's visionary leadership, deep industry knowledge, and unwavering commitment to our customers and communities have left a lasting impact on this organization,” said Chief Executive Officer Katie Woodle. “She has helped build a strong operational foundation that will continue to serve our region for years to come.”
Succeeding Christian as COO is Blake Canterbury, who previously served as Consumer Accounting Manager and brings 13 years of experience with Blue Ridge Energy to his new role. Canterbury began his career with the cooperative in 2013 as its first Finance and Accounting summer intern before joining full time as an Energy Specialist in the Watauga District office. He returned to the corporate Finance and Accounting team in 2015, advancing through roles in accounts payable, cost accounting and consumer accounting before being promoted to Consumer Accounting Manager. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Finance and Banking & General Management from Appalachian State University in 2013.
“I'm incredibly proud of the team we've built at Blue Ridge Energy,” said Christian. “I have full confidence in Blake and the leadership team to continue serving our customers with the same focus on safety, reliability, and service excellence.”
“These leadership changes reflect Blue Ridge Energy's commitment to thoughtful succession planning and ensure continuity in service, operational excellence, and long-term stability for the communities it serves,” said Woodle.
Blue Ridge Energy serves roughly 80,000 members in Caldwell, Watauga, Ashe, Alleghany, Avery, Wilkes and Alexander counties. Learn more at BlueRidgeEnergy.com.
