MEA Restructures Leadership Team to Address Challenges Ahead
Matanuska Electric Association
Matanuska Electric Association (MEA) restructured its executive leadership team as the co-op prepares to confront changes in gas supply, growing opportunities in clean energy, the need to build resilience, and evolving member needs. CEO Tony Izzo says, “I am realigning my executive team to accelerate progress on securing a diverse, resilient, and secure energy future while ensuring we are executing the critical mission of providing an essential service to our growing service territory.”
Julie Estey
Matanuska Electric Association
Julie Estey is promoted to Chief Strategy Officer. In this new role, Estey oversees development and execution of MEA’s long-term strategic initiatives and leads external efforts regarding legislation, partnerships with stakeholders, and collaboration with other Railbelt utilities. Estey has been with MEA for ten years, most recently as Senior Director of External Affairs and Strategic Initiatives, where she also oversaw the Public and Member Relations Division. She serves as the organization’s representative of the Railbelt Reliability Council.
Current Issue
April 2024
Ed Jenkin
Matanuska Electric Association
Ed Jenkin, who has been an integral part of MEA’s leadership team for nearly ten years, is now Chief Energy Transformation Officer. In this role, Jenkin leads MEA’s efforts to explore and implement cutting-edge technologies and sustainable energy solutions, navigate the ever-evolving energy landscape, and reduce its environmental footprint. Jenkin is responsible for developing the technical course for energy diversification in collaboration with the rest of the Railbelt. Jenkin was previously Chief Operating Officer. Prior to joining MEA in 2014, Jenkin spent twenty-five years at Chugach Electric Association, including a stint as Vice President of Power Delivery.
Tony Zellers
Matanuska Electric Association
The new Chief Operating Officer is Tony Zellers, responsible for both the Power Supply and Power Delivery divisions. In his nineteen years of experience at MEA, Zellers has served in various operational roles, including dispatch and power restoration, most recently serving as the Senior Director of Power Supply. Zellers played a key role in the construction and commissioning of the Eklutna Generation Station, providing project management for engineering, construction, and equipment and materials of the 170 MW power plant.
Justin Patterson
Matanuska Electric Association
Justin Patterson is promoted to Chief Administration Officer, overseeing human resources, safety, process improvement, and member services. Patterson joined MEA in 2018 after spending more than twenty years in the telecommunications industry in a variety of roles, from retail storefronts and call centers to finance and human resources. Patterson holds a Master of Business Administration degree and is a certified human resources professional.
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