The board of directors for member-owned co-operative Yampa Valley Electric Association has named a new CEO, Scott Blecke, a professional engineer from Michigan.

The CEO role includes overseeing Luminate Broadband, and Blecke will start at YVEA on Aug. 19.

“It was an extensive process,” YVEA Public Relations Specialist Carly Davidson said. “We spent the last 5-6 months working with our consulting firm to narrow our list of approximately 200 to our final selection.”

YVEA Board President Tom Fox made the hiring announcement during an all-employee meeting on Wednesday.

“The board welcomes Scott to the leadership team and looks forward to working closely with him as we strengthen and expand our mission and purpose, driven by providing safe, reliable and affordable power to our members,” Fox said. “Scott is an exceptional leader who is aligned with YVEA and Luminate Broadband’s mission and vision, making him the ideal candidate.”

Blecke will succeed Steve Johnson, who agreed with YVEA to a mutual non-renewal of his contract in January.

With more than 20 years of experience as a strategic engineering executive, Blecke has a proven track record in developing trusting relationships and adding value to cooperative utilities, according to a YVEA media release. Blecke is passionate about empowering others to grow, develop and excel both personally and professionally.

“This is a pivotal time for our industry, and I look forward to working with our talented team to drive innovation, enhance our service to the community and build a culture of excellence and collaboration,” Blecke said.

Blecke previously served as the chief strategy officer at Great Lakes Energy Co-operative headquartered in Boyne City, Michigan. During his tenure at Great Lakes from 2004 to fall 2023, he served in various roles — including electrical engineer, engineering director, and vice president of engineering. Blecke earned a master of business administration degree and a bachelor of science degree in electrical engineering from Michigan Technological University.

Outside of work, Blecke is married, has one son and served on the board for Charlevoix Public Schools.