OUR LEADERSHIP TEAM
At Liberty Electric, our success is built on the expertise, dedication, and integrity of our team. Since 1979, we’ve been committed to delivering high-quality electrical solutions throughout Montana, and it’s our skilled professionals who make that possible.
We take pride in our team of licensed journeymen electricians, master electricians, experienced project managers, and industry-certified specialists, all working together to provide safe, efficient, and innovative electrical services. Whether it’s a small residential installation or a large-scale commercial project, our team approaches every job with the same level of precision, professionalism, and attention to detail.
Clay Ledbetter
President and Owner
A proud U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Clay Ledbetter joined Liberty Electric in 1997 and has grown through nearly every role, moving from apprentice to president and owner.
His leadership is grounded in decades of hands-on experience, a passion for excellence, and a deep commitment to people.
Dedicated to advancing the electrical trade, Clay helped establish the Montana IEC Education Apprenticeship School in Missoula and continues to serve on its board. He also serves on the Montana IEC Board of Directors and the Montana State Electrical Board as a Master Electrician.
Outside of work, Clay is a proud husband, father of three, and “Granddaddy” to one beautiful granddaughter. His integrity, heart, and vision reflect the spirit of Liberty Electric and its commitment to powering progress across Montana.
Janice Couch
Vice President of Operations and Owner
Since joining Liberty Electric in 1995, Janice Couch has played a key role in the company’s growth, rising from her first position in billing to her current role as Vice President of Operations and Owner.
She has been proud to help guide Liberty from a small team of 15 to one of Montana’s leading electrical contractors.
Outside of work, Janice brings the same energy and joy to her hobbies. She is a passionate golfer, a loyal University of Montana Griz fan, and a frequent traveler. When she is not on the go, she loves spending time with her dogs.
Janice’s dedication, humor, and leadership embody the heart of Liberty Electric and its commitment to serving people with integrity and pride.
Melissa Wickum
Executive Manager
With more than twenty years at Liberty Electric, Melissa Wickum has been an essential part of the company’s growth and leadership.
Originally from Joplin, Montana, she began her Liberty career in 2002 in the Chester office and later moved to Missoula when the corporate headquarters relocated.
Melissa is devoted to her family and community. She is the proud mom of two daughters, two adopted nieces, and one grandson in heaven. Outside the office, she enjoys rodeos, concerts, traveling, and calling herself a professional shopper.
Her warmth, dedication, and positive spirit reflect the very heart of Liberty Electric and the people who make it strong.
Daniel Rearden
Vice President and General Manager of Great Falls
A Great Falls native with a heart for community and craftsmanship, Dan Rearden leads Liberty Electric’s Great Falls division with dedication and purpose.
Since joining Liberty in 2006, Dan has helped power countless projects across Montana — from Malmstrom Air Force Base to local neighborhoods — always with a focus on quality, integrity, and service.
With decades of leadership experience in Montana’s electrical industry, Dan is also deeply involved in his community, serving on local development boards and supporting foster families through his work with Child Bridge. Guided by faith, family, and a passion for helping others,
Dan embodies Liberty Electric’s mission to serve people and power progress across Big Sky Country.
Shane Willhite
Missoula Area Manager
Shane Willhite began his electrical career after graduating from Plains High School and attending the North Dakota State College of Science. He completed his apprenticeship in Colorado, gaining experience in service and commercial work before joining Liberty Electric in Missoula, Montana.
Since earning his journeyman’s license, Shane has served in several roles including service technician, project foreman ,and service manager. Since 2018 he has led the Missoula area team, where he enjoys working closely with crews and seeing projects through from start to finish.
Outside of work, Shane enjoys time at the lake, dirt biking, fishing, golfing and being with his wife Heather and their five children: Emma, Alaina, Riley, Cale, and Cason.
