Marshall Municipal Utilities

Widel receives Paul Jensen Individual Achievement Award

October 3, 2024:  Marshall – The Missouri Public Utility Alliance (MPUA) recently honored Jim Widel, Marshall Municipal Utilities’ (MMU) IT & Broadband Director, with its Paul Jensen Individual Achievement Award.

The award, presented by MPUA, recognizes an employee of an MPUA member who has been an active participant in the Alliance for at least 5 years, and who has accomplished special achievements for their utility.

“Jim Widel’s expertise has contributed to the reliability of utility services across all departments of MMU,” said John Twitty, President and CEO of MPUA. “His commitment to the expansion of fiber optic broadband services is a remarkable accomplishment which will benefit utility customers in Saline County for years to come.”

Widel began working at MMU as a Computer Programmer/ Operator in 1994 and became Director of the IT & Broadband Department in 2019.

For three decades, Widel has advocated for the growth of hometown utilities, navigating challenges along the way. In 2019 and 2020, his efforts earned two USDA ReConnect Grants which brought high-speed broadband internet into rural areas.

Colleagues noted that Widel’s work ethic and willingness to help the community are second to none.

The annual Alliance Awards are made in recognition of achievement and distinction among MPUA member hometown utilities.