Contributed article
WILLCOX — With utmost sorrow, Valley TeleCom Group announces the passing of the cooperative’s CEO, Steven Metts, on Thursday, June 15, 2023.
Steve’s tenure in the telecommunications industry spanned over 35 years. Steve served as the CEO of Valley TeleCom Group for 17 years, leading the cooperative to a strong financial position and driving innovation to meet the communication needs of its members. Most recently Steve, along with the Board and Management Team, worked diligently in expanding Valley’s fiber network into rural southeastern Arizona and southwestern New Mexico. He also served as President of the New Mexico Exchange Carrier Group for 17 years.
Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with the Metts’ family as we all mourn his tragic loss. A viewing will be held at 5 p.m. Friday June 23, with the funeral service beginning at 6 p.m. at Hansen Mortuaries (6500 E. Bell Rd, Scottsdale, AZ, 85254). A Celebration of Life will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, July 1, at the Willcox Elks Lodge (247 E Stewart St, Willcox, AZ, 85643).
As for operations of Valley TeleCom Group, Board President David Thompson designated Chief Financial Officer Troy Judd as the interim CEO until further notice.
Day-to-day operations of Valley will be managed by Judd and Chief Operating Officer Kristi Lee, who have over 50 years of combined service with Valley. They are working in coordination with Thompson, who has served on the board since 1999. With their leadership, Valley’s 78 employees will continue to provide dedicated and quality service to Valley’s members and customers.
