The Duo County Telephone Board of Directors has selected Tom Preston as its new chief executive officer. The decision came after the retirement of longtime CEO Bill Magruder last month.

Preston has more than 15 years of experience in the telecommunications industry and prior to coming to Duo County served as the CEO for Foothills Telephone Company in Staffordsville, Ky.

"I'm honored to be selected as the cooperative's new CEO replacing a nationally recognized standout in our industry," Preston said. "I expect us to continue offering great service at a great value while staying ahead of the curve when it comes to technology. Our community must have great telecommunications infrastructure and services to be competitive and that's what Duo County will continue delivering."

Tom's family consists of his wife Heather and three daughters Macy, 13, Madelyn, 10, and Maleah, 6.

Tom is a graduate of the University of Kentucky with a degree in Business Administration.

"My family is looking forward to making a positive contribution to the community," he said.

Magruder retired last month after spending 35 years managing the local telephone cooperative. Magruder notified the cooperative's board back in November of his intentions to step aside, effective on April 15, at which time Preston succeeded him