In 2000, Justin Thrift was an Okefenoke REMC Scholarship Award winner which aided him in obtaining his associate degree in business from Waycross College (South Georgia State College). Twenty-six years later Thrift has once again been selected by OREMC—this time as an Engineer.

A civil engineer, Thrift’s hiring represents a new approach for OREMC as it looks toward the growth of future energy demands and the expected build out of its distribution system to meet that demand. Thrift intends to leverage his experience to help better streamline processes and relationships related to permitting and working with the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT).

Thrift spent the last 12 years of his career working at GDOT: bridge construction, highway maintenance, surveying, and most recently, managing six short-line railroads. Prior to GDOT Thrift worked for Norfolk Southern railway doing civil design work. He started as a student while pursuing his civil engineering degree from Southern Tech (Kennesaw State University).

“My experience in civil engineering comes into play as we look toward the anticipated growth in commercial and industrial members on the OREMC distribution system,” explains Thrift. “These types of members involve more dirt and site work and understanding of the infrastructure needed to serve them. Having worked at GDOT, I have an understanding of how the agency works that can help streamline processes and enhance efficiencies in permitting.”

“Justin has proven to be a great fit and addition to our team,” says OREMC Manager of Engineering Kane Lee.  “One of his greatest strengths is his willingness to take ownership. When he identifies a problem, he does not wait for someone else to address it. Instead, he takes the initiative to understand the issue, identify a solution, and move it forward. That level of initiative, accountability, and self-motivation is essential to success in his role, and Justin demonstrates these qualities consistently. His willingness to step up when challenges arise has made him a valuable addition to the Engineering Department, particularly during a time of significant change and increased responsibility.”

While he brings a lot to the table, Thrift also understands he has much to learn about the utility industry. He is excited by the opportunity to grow professionally and has enjoyed collaborating with Staking and GIS/Mapping and simply being part of the OREMC team that is ready, willing and able to make a difference in the community.

Born and raised in Brantley County, Thrift is living in the home he grew up in with his wife, Mandy, and their two daughters. Outside of work Thrift is an elder at his church, likes to play guitar, golf and work along his dad restoring a couple of old hot rods.