Nebraska Public Power District Executive and Leadership Team

Patrick Pope, the Chief Executive Officer at Nebraska Public Power District, directs the overarching strategic vision for the utility. Pope manages the long-term energy planning and infrastructure development required to support the diverse power needs of the state. By coordinating with the Board of Directors, the Chief Executive Officer ensures that all operational goals align with the public mandate of the organization. This leadership role involves navigating complex regulatory environments and optimizing the generation mix to maintain grid reliability. Patrick Pope drives initiatives that enhance service delivery and operational efficiency across the entire service territory. Through rigorous oversight of capital projects and resource allocation, the Chief Executive Officer secures the financial and operational health of the district. Ultimately, Pope fosters a culture of safety and innovation, ensuring that the utility meets the evolving energy demands of the region while upholding the core mission of public service.

Thomas Kent, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Nebraska Public Power District, executes the primary business strategy for the organization. Kent oversees the integration of renewable energy sources and traditional power generation to ensure a balanced and resilient energy portfolio. As the President & Chief Executive Officer, Kent manages the executive team to drive performance across all departments, focusing on grid modernization and customer-centric service models. This leadership role requires constant engagement with stakeholders to address regional energy challenges and opportunities. Thomas Kent directs the implementation of advanced technologies that improve system reliability and operational transparency. By prioritizing long-term sustainability and fiscal responsibility, the President & Chief Executive Officer strengthens the market position of the utility. Ultimately, Kent ensures that the organization remains a cornerstone of the state infrastructure, delivering consistent value and reliable power to all retail and wholesale customers.

Traci Bender, the Chief Financial Officer at Nebraska Public Power District, manages the fiscal health and capital structure of the utility. Bender oversees the financial planning, budgeting, and treasury functions necessary to support large-scale energy infrastructure investments. As the Chief Financial Officer, Bender directs the development of financial strategies that mitigate risk and ensure the long-term viability of the organization. This leadership role involves coordinating with external auditors and regulatory bodies to maintain compliance and transparency in all financial reporting. Traci Bender drives the optimization of cost structures and revenue management to keep energy rates competitive for the public. By analyzing market trends and economic indicators, the Chief Financial Officer provides the data-driven insights required for sound executive decision-making. Ultimately, Bender secures the financial foundation of the district, enabling the continued delivery of reliable and affordable electric power to the entire service region.

Laura Kapustka, the Nppd Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Nebraska Public Power District, leads the financial operations and accounting functions for the utility. Kapustka oversees the internal controls, financial forecasting, and asset management processes that support the operational requirements of the district. As the Nppd Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Kapustka directs the implementation of financial systems that enhance reporting accuracy and operational efficiency. This leadership role involves collaborating with other executives to align financial resources with strategic growth initiatives and infrastructure maintenance. Laura Kapustka drives the development of funding strategies for major capital projects, ensuring that the utility maintains a strong balance sheet. By monitoring cash flow and investment performance, the Nppd Vice President & Chief Financial Officer supports the overall mission of providing reliable energy services. Ultimately, Kapustka ensures fiscal discipline and transparency, contributing to the long-term stability and success of the organization.

Bender Traci, the Executive Vice President & District Chief Financial Officer, Nebraska Public Power at Nebraska Public Power District, manages the enterprise-wide financial strategy and risk management frameworks. Bender Traci oversees the procurement, supply chain finance, and rate-setting processes that directly impact the cost of service for customers. As the Executive Vice President & District Chief Financial Officer, Nebraska Public Power, Bender Traci directs the financial analysis of energy market participation and wholesale power contracts. This leadership role involves working closely with the Board to ensure that financial policies support the public interest and long-term sustainability goals. By optimizing the capital allocation process, the Executive Vice President & District Chief Financial Officer, Nebraska Public Power drives efficiency across all business units. Ultimately, Bender Traci ensures that the financial operations of the district remain robust and responsive to the changing needs of the energy industry and the communities served.

Roy Steiner, the Vice President, Human Resources & Corporate Support at Nebraska Public Power District, directs the talent management and organizational development strategies for the utility. Steiner oversees the recruitment, training, and employee relations programs that ensure a skilled and motivated workforce. As the Vice President, Human Resources & Corporate Support, Steiner manages the administrative functions and corporate services that enable the smooth operation of the district. This leadership role involves fostering a culture of safety, inclusion, and professional growth across all departments. Roy Steiner drives the implementation of performance management systems that align individual contributions with the broader mission of the organization. By coordinating with other executives, the Vice President, Human Resources & Corporate Support ensures that the utility attracts and retains the expertise required to maintain complex energy infrastructure. Ultimately, Steiner supports the human capital needs of the district, ensuring that the organization remains a high-performing and reliable provider of electric power.