• Patrick Lucero to lead Clovis-area community relations

    March 15, 2023
    David Essex retiring from community role after more than 37 years of service
     
    Patrick Lucero has been promoted to the position of manager for Community and Economic Development in Xcel Energy’s Clovis district, succeeding David Essex who is retiring in April after more than 37 years of service.
     
     
     
    Lucero currently is the manager for Substation Operations and Maintenance in Clovis. He joined the company 11 years ago as a working foreman in the Substation department.
     
    “Patrick has spent more than a decade serving our customers and has gained valuable experience in providing solutions for our communities and preparing them for future growth,” said Mike McLeod, New Mexico regional manager for Community and Economic Development. “David Essex set a high standard for community service and we’re confident Patrick is up to the task.”
     
    Lucero will serve as the company liaison between city and county governments in Curry, Quay and Roosevelt counties and will work with economic development groups to retain and expand businesses in the Clovis district. He also will provide support for nonprofits and other community groups working to improve the quality of life for area residents.
     
    Lucero is a native of Tucumcari and graduated from Tucumcari High School in 1998.
     
     
     
    Patrick Lucero
     
     
     
    Essex was hired a meter reader for Southwestern Public Service Company in October 1985. He stayed in the Meter Reading department for nine years, achieving the position of chief meter reader. He then took a position as a distribution designer and stayed in that role for 15 years. He has served as manager for Community and Economic Development in the Clovis district for the past 14 years.
     
    “David has made many friends in the Clovis area because he loves working with people and always gives his best,” McLeod said. “We’re reluctant to see him go but we’re glad he’s staying in Clovis where he’ll have more time to spend with his family and friends.”
     
     
     
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