Grant PUD Executive and Leadership Team

John Mertlich, the General Manager & Chief Executive Officer at Grant PUD, directs the overarching strategic vision for the utility. Overseeing the Priest Rapids Project, the General Manager & Chief Executive Officer ensures the reliable generation of power across the Columbia River. This leadership role involves managing complex stakeholder relationships and driving long-term sustainability initiatives for the entire region. By aligning operational goals with the needs of residents and businesses from Electric City to Royal City, John Mertlich secures the financial and operational health of the organization. Mertlich coordinates with the Board to implement policies that prioritize affordable service delivery. Through rigorous oversight of utility assets, the General Manager & Chief Executive Officer maintains the infrastructure necessary for regional economic growth. Ultimately, Mertlich fosters a culture of efficiency and public service, ensuring the utility meets the evolving energy demands of the community.

Kevin Marshall, the Chief Operating Officer & Dam Safety Engineer at Grant PUD, manages the technical integrity of hydroelectric assets. Overseeing dam safety protocols, the Chief Operating Officer & Dam Safety Engineer ensures compliance with federal regulations while optimizing power generation output. This role involves directing maintenance schedules for the Priest Rapids Project to prevent service interruptions. By integrating engineering expertise with operational management, Kevin Marshall mitigates risks associated with large-scale energy production. Marshall collaborates with technical teams to modernize equipment and improve grid reliability for customers throughout Grant County. The Chief Operating Officer & Dam Safety Engineer monitors environmental impacts to uphold sustainability standards. Through constant vigilance and technical precision, Marshall guarantees the safety and performance of critical infrastructure. This leadership position directly supports the utility's mission to provide consistent, affordable energy to the regional market.

Tod Ayers, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Grant PUD, architects the talent acquisition and workforce development strategies for the utility. Overseeing organizational culture, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures the alignment of personnel capabilities with the technical demands of power and fiber internet operations. This role involves designing training programs that enhance employee safety and operational efficiency. By managing labor relations and compensation structures, Tod Ayers maintains a stable and productive workforce capable of supporting regional service delivery. Ayers collaborates with other executive leaders to implement performance management systems that drive accountability. The Chief Human Resources Officer focuses on building a diverse team that reflects the values of the community. Through strategic workforce planning, Ayers secures the human capital necessary for long-term utility success. This leadership function remains vital for sustaining the high standards of service expected by customers across the service territory.

Charles Meyer, the Vice President, Technology & Chief Technology Officer at Grant PUD, directs the digital transformation and fiber internet expansion initiatives. Overseeing the modernization of network infrastructure, the Vice President, Technology & Chief Technology Officer ensures the delivery of high-speed connectivity to businesses and residents. This role involves managing cybersecurity protocols to protect critical utility data and operational systems. By integrating advanced technology solutions, Charles Meyer improves the efficiency of power distribution and customer service platforms. Meyer collaborates with engineering teams to deploy scalable fiber solutions that support regional economic growth. The Vice President, Technology & Chief Technology Officer evaluates emerging technologies to maintain a competitive edge in the energy and telecommunications sectors. Through strategic investment in digital assets, Meyer enhances the reliability of services provided to the community. This leadership role drives the technological evolution required to meet modern utility demands.

Julie Pyper, the Chief Administrative Officer at Grant PUD, manages the internal business processes and corporate governance functions. Overseeing administrative operations, the Chief Administrative Officer ensures that all departments adhere to regulatory requirements and internal policies. This role involves coordinating cross-functional projects that streamline service delivery for power and fiber internet customers. By optimizing procurement and facility management, Julie Pyper reduces operational costs and improves organizational efficiency. Pyper works closely with the executive team to facilitate transparent communication and effective resource allocation. The Chief Administrative Officer monitors compliance with public utility standards to protect the interests of the community. Through meticulous oversight of administrative workflows, Pyper supports the overall mission of providing affordable and reliable services. This leadership position provides the structural foundation necessary for the utility to function effectively across the entire region, ensuring all business activities remain aligned with corporate objectives.