The East Central Energy (ECE) board of directors selected Steve Shurts as the president/CEO of the cooperative, replacing Garry Bye, who is retiring after nearly 25 years in the position. Shurts brings more than 30 years of experience in the utility and energy business, and an MBA from the University of St. Thomas. Since 2003, Shurts has managed the Owatonna Public Utilities that serves electric, water and natural gas customers.
“I hope to continue the emphasis on premier customer service, reliability and financial stability ECE has enjoyed under Garry’s leadership. My family and I look forward to joining East Central Energy and becoming members of the community.”
ECE’s search for a new president/CEO began in early 2010 with the announcement of Bye’s retirement. Sturts is expected to start at ECE in July.