Annual Meeting & Election

Debbie Cook
YVEA District 2
Biography

I am seeking reelection to the Board of Directors for Yampa Valley Electric Association. I have lived and worked in the Yampa Valley most of my life. Along with working as a dental hygienist, I am involved in all aspects of our ranch/farming business.

In operating our family business, I’ve learned what it takes to succeed. Through wise money-management and good conservative decision-making, we’ve thrived for over 35 years. I bring these strengths and experience to the YVEA Board.

There are many courses a director must pass in order to earn the Credentialed Cooperative Director Certificate (CCD). I have earned the CCD and am two classes from earning the Board Leadership Certificate.

During my first term, one of the challenges faced at YVEA was how to achieve business continuity through the COVID-19 pandemic. There were many changes for the co-op when both offices were closed to the public, and staff and directors were working from home and meeting virtually. Through it all YVEA kept the co-op running smoothly and the lights on.

In the next 10 years we will see many changes in electric energy production and consumption. Last year, we all felt the effects of inflation with higher prices for all products and services. The YVEA Board is tasked with guiding the Association through these times of change.

Thank you for your consideration in voting for me as I seek reelection to the YVEA Board. My mission is to see that co-op members continue to have reliable, affordable power.

Raymond (Ray) G. DuBois, MBA, P.E.

YVEA District 2

Biography

Ray DuBois and his wife, Beth, have lived in Moffat County since 1996 where they raised three children. The family moved to the Yampa Valley for the quality of life and where Ray could continue his career in mining. His employment progression highlights adaptability and versatility:
•Manager of Engineering – Peabody Energy
•Manager of Engineering, Environmental and Safety – Farco Mining of Texas
•President/GM – Trapper Mining, Inc.
•Vice President/GM – Cripple Creek & Victor Gold Ming Co.
•Cripple Creek City Administrator
•Routt County Public Works Director

Ray previously served as YVEA director from 2009-2011. He has a good understanding of the electric cooperative model through his service on the YVEA board and through many years working at Trapper Mine. Ray retired in 2021 and is catching up on projects on his family’s 241-acre farm located outside of Craig.

Ray has the experience necessary to serve as an effective board member and his commitment to our community is evident by his leadership and past involvement with local and state organizations: Colorado Northwestern Community College, Grand Futures Prevention Coalition, Colorado Mining Association, Boys and Girls Club of Craig, Craig Youth Soccer Association, Craig Parks & Recreation, Craig Youth Hockey Association, and Boy Scouts.

Ray is seeking a seat on the board to help our communities navigate the changing world of electricity generation. His experience will help ensure our co-op remains resilient and well-managed. Ray will work collaboratively to ensure that current and future generations have access to reliable, affordable, flexible, and clean electricity.

Sasha Nelson

District 3

Biography

Sasha Nelson is a community leader and advocate for healthy public lands, balanced energy, and sustainable economic development. She is running for District 3, a position she was appointed to fill in 2021, receiving her co-operative director certification in September of 2021.

As a member of the electrical co-op board, she prioritizes balanced approaches to energy. Sasha asks to continue to help ensure access to affordable and reliable electricity for all members. Her knowledge of the energy sector and ability to build consensus make her a strong candidate.

Raised in Craig and currently working as the Dean of Workforce Education and Economic Development at Colorado Northwestern Community College, Sasha has over 10 years of experience in conservation in Australia and Colorado. She holds multiple degrees in communication and biology and has owned a business since 2010, giving her insight into the challenges facing small businesses in the Yampa Valley.

She believes Northwestern Colorado must remain a place of opportunity for future generations. Sasha's dedication to the community and passion for healthy public lands, balanced energy, and sustainable economic development make her an ideal candidate for the electrical co-op board.