YVEA Announces Steve Johnson as New General Manager

Yampa Valley Electric Association (YVEA), a member-owned electric cooperative, is proud to announce that Steve Johnson, formerly YVEA Operations Manager, has accepted the position of President and General Manager of YVEA. He was appointed by the YVEA Board of Directors at its March 21 meeting. The announcement of his appointment was made by YVEA Board vice-chairman Larry Ellgen during a special all-staff meeting Monday morning at YVEA’s Steamboat Springs Service Center and corporate office. His first day in his new role is today, Monday, March 26. 

Johnson succeeds Diane Johnson (no relation), who had informed the board that after more than four years of leading YVEA, she would be stepping down at the end of her current contract for other opportunities. “We thank Diane for her service to YVEA and our members,” Ellgen told the assembled staff members before introducing Steve Johnson as the new general manager.

In addition to Ellgen, YVEA board members Glynda Sheehan and Russ Garrity attended the morning meeting with staff and shared their excitement and support as Johnson began his first day as president.

“I am excited to take on this new leadership role with a great organization. I’ve had the opportunity over the last four years to work with everyone here, and I look forward to continue working with this great Board and staff as we serve our members,” Johnson told the assembled staff members.

Prior to accepting the role of President, Johnson served as Operations Manager for YVEA, a position he had held since 2013.  Prior to YVEA, Johnson served as the manager of operations for Meeker Cooperative Light & Power in Minnesota, and prior was a field services and operations supervisor for Star Energy Services. He also served as a district manager of operations for Osmose, Inc, in New York.  His more than 20 years of industry experience includes experience in operations, engineering, high-voltage transmission systems, substations, distribution systems, metering, business information systems, power purchase, financial planning and strategic planning.

Johnson earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental and Natural Resources Management from the University of Minnesota. He also has earned numerous professional certifications in engineering and operations, safety, substation maintenance and design, management and leadership, OSHA, and more.

Steve Johnson becomes a part of YVEA’s rich history of serving northwest Colorado and southern Wyoming and will continue to improve the company’s infrastructure, while expanding and enhancing the cooperative’s unique member-owned business model.