Biography
Message
Having spent 39 years in the electric utility before retiring in May 2019, I’ve seen a lot of change. But, nothing like the changes we see today in every facet of energy development, procurement, and delivery, let alone the changes in consumer behaviors. One thing for certain is that there is no certainty, at least not for the foreseeable future. Hence the value and importance of building and maintaining a broad and deep network. There is always something to learn from everyone you meet, some of which can change the course of your career.
Biography
Anita J. Decker retired from the electric utility industry after 39 years. She was the executive director of the Northwest Public Power Association from 2014 to 2019 where she led the Association's work in people development, legislative and regulatory advocacy and communication for over 150 public/people's utility districts, electric cooperatives, municipalities and crown corporations in 9 Western states and British Columbia. From 2007 to 2014, she served as Chief Operating Officer for the Bonneville Power Administration responsible for BPA’s Power Services; Transmission Services; Environment, Fish & Wildlife; Internal Business Services. Prior to Bonneville, she spent 27 years with PacifiCorp, holding positions in Oregon, Wyoming and Utah rising to the role of business unit vice president. She spent 19 years in field operations customer service, transmission/distribution construction and maintenance, sales and marketing, and energy conservation.
Professional Affiliations
- Public Power Council
- American Public Power Association
- National Rural Electric Cooperative Association
Other prior civic and professional activities
- Past President, Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance
- Portland State University School of Business’ Business Advisory Council
- Portland State University School of Engineering Advisory Council
- University of Idaho Utility Executive Summit Advisory Board and Utility Executive Course Board
- Oregon State Board of Education
- Children & Family Services Commissioner
- Senior Fellow, American Leadership Forum of Oregon
- Past President, Liberty Theater Board in Astoria, OR
- Past recipient of the Portland Business Journal's Orchid Award for leadership