1. HOME
  2.  | 
  3. Industry
  4.  | 
  5. Energy
  6.  | MEA Restructures Leadership Team to Address Challenges Ahead

MEA Restructures Leadership Team to Address Challenges Ahead

Nov 29, 2023 | Energy, Right Moves

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

Alaska Business Magazine January 2026 cover

January 2026

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.

Related Articles
Alaska Business Magazine January 2026 cover
In This Issue
JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT OF ALASKA + INDUSTRY SUPPORT
January 2026
In our first issue of 2026, we are again featuring two special sections: Junior Achievement of Alaska and Industry Support.

We’re honored again this year to celebrate our partnership with Junior Achievement of Alaska, a nonprofit that educates local youth about enterprise, business, money, and financial literacy. In the special section, three Junior Achievement of Alaska students weigh in on their experience with the exceptional volunteers and teachers involved with the program.

And in Industry Support, we explore the range of varied services that industry in Alaska requires, from mancamps to spill response to off-grid energy solutions.

Outside the special sections, make sure to check out the 2026 Economic forecast, where Alaska leaders share their insights on what may lie ahead in the coming year. Enjoy!

Share This