Press Release – GCSECA Announces New CEO

GCSECA Announces New CEO

March 23, 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

TEMPE, AZ – Grand Canyon State Electric Cooperative Association, Inc. (GCSECA) announced a key staff change today. Jorge Canaca will become the Chief Executive Officer on April 16.

Canaca has served GCSECA since 2016 as the Director of Federal Government Relations and Regulatory Affairs and brings valuable knowledge and experience to the position.

“I am deeply honored and humbled the GCSECA Board has selected me as GCSECA’s next CEO. I’m excited to lead our team of talented professionals to champion the interests of our rural members-owners and amplify their collective voice. I look forward to collaboratively partnering with our Board, policymakers, regulators, public power community, and stakeholders to navigate future challenges and leverage opportunities in a rapidly changing landscape.”

Canaca previously managed various responsibilities with Arizona’s Game & Fish Department. He has strong knowledge about regulatory powers and regulations regarding various aspects that impact Arizona’s electric cooperatives. Currently, Canaca coordinates, monitors and executes GSCECA’s federal advocacy and legislative measures and observes and advocates about national and local regulatory issues impacting Arizona’s electric cooperatives.

“Jorge’s experience and deep passion for Arizona’s rural electric co-ops and their issues makes him an ideal person to take on this role,” said current GCSECA CEO Dave Lock, who is retiring after seven years in the position. “I know Jorge will do a great job for our members and leading our outstanding Team.”

“Jorge has been a valued part of the GCSECA team for many years,” said Jason Bowling, President of GCSECA’s Board of Directors and CEO of Sulphur Springs Valley Electric Co-op. “His experience, leadership, and commitment to our Members made him a strong choice for this role.”

GCSECA is a not-for-profit, nonpartisan association established in 1950 that represents and provides Arizona’s rural electric cooperatives with a unified voice in state and federal legislative and regulatory matters. GCSECA also provides a number of services and cost-sharing resources to its Members. GCSECA also serves 13 Associate Members, encompassing co-ops headquartered in other states, as well as consumer-owned utilities, such as electric districts and Tribal Utility Authorities.