Tom Howard Honored with Bruce Harris Excellence in Leadership Award
CALLAWAY COUNTY, MO – The Callaway Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce that Tom Howard, General Manager/CEO of Callaway Electric Cooperative, has been named the recipient of the 2026 Bruce Harris Excellence in Leadership Award.
This prestigious award recognizes an individual who exemplifies outstanding leadership, strong character, and a deep commitment to the Callaway County community.
With more than 40 years of service to over 11,000 members of Callaway Electric Cooperative, Howard has played a key role in strengthening both the cooperative and the local mid-Missouri economy. His leadership has advanced safety initiatives, supported territorial agreements, and expanded services through ventures such as Callaway Propane.
Howard has also been a driving force behind technological innovation in the region, championing advancements such as automated metering, GIS mapping, and the creation of Callabyte Technology, now delivering high-speed fiber broadband to thousands of subscribers across more than 20 communities.
Beyond his professional achievements, Howard is deeply committed to community service. He has served on numerous boards and organizations, including the Fulton Chamber of Commerce, the Industrial Development Authority, and the Fulton Area Development Foundation. He is also an active member of Mokane Fellowship Church and the Mokane Masonic Lodge, reflecting his long-standing dedication to community involvement and philanthropy.
The award is named in honor of Bruce Harris, a respected business leader known for his integrity, collaboration, and ability to bring people together to address community challenges. Recipients of this award reflect those same values through their leadership and service.
“Tom exemplifies the kind of leadership this award was created to recognize,” said Tamara Tateosian, CEO of the Callaway Chamber of Commerce. “His advocacy for rural communities, his commitment to innovation, and his dedication to serving others have made a lasting impact across Callaway County. We are proud to honor him with this year’s Bruce Harris Excellence in Leadership Award.”
The Callaway Chamber of Commerce is honored to recognize Tom Howard for his contributions and thanks him for his continued leadership and dedication to Callaway County.
