Co-Mo Connect Communications Manager Receives Four National Awards for Educational Projects

Patrick Wood, communications manager for Co-Mo Connect Powered by Co-Mo Electric Cooperative, recently earned four national awards recognizing creative educational resources he developed to teach children about electricity, electrical safety, and the cooperative difference.

Wood received two Gold Hermes Creative Awards from the Association of Marketing and Communications Professionals (AMCP) for his books, Cat & Duck and the Electric Cooperative and Cat & Duck Electric Safety. He also earned two First Place Awards in the 2026 Cooperative Communicators Association (CCA) Communications Contest for Cat & Duck Electric Safety and the educational card game ZAP SLAP!

The Hermes Creative Awards recognize outstanding creative work from communications professionals worldwide, while the CCA Communications Contest honors excellence in communications produced by cooperatives across the country.

"These projects all started with the goal of making electrical safety fun and memorable for kids," Wood said. "Whether it's through a book or a card game, children learn best when they're engaged and having fun. I'm honored these projects were recognized by both AMCP and CCA."

The award-winning books and card game help electric cooperatives teach children about electrical safety and the cooperative model through storytelling, illustration, and play. Today, Cat & Duck books are used by electric cooperatives in more than 30 states, helping introduce young readers to electrical safety and the cooperative difference.

"Patrick continues to find creative ways to educate the kids in Co-Mo Country," said Co-Mo Connect CEO Aaron Bradshaw. "These awards recognize both his talent and our cooperative's commitment to finding innovative ways to connect with the next generation."

While the national recognition is appreciated, Wood says the greatest reward is seeing children learn and enjoy these educational materials nationally.

For more information and to see these educational resources, visit www.co-mo.coop/kids or www.CatandDuck.org.