Washington State’s Pacific County PUD announced the appointment of Chris Forrest as its new General Manager.
Forrest brings more than 25 years of leadership experience in the power industry, with a proven track record of delivering utility transformation, operational excellence, and community-focused service, the PUD noted.
Forrest most recently served as Chief Power Supply Officer at Golden Valley Electric Association (GVEA) in Fairbanks, Alaska, where he guided major operational improvements, secured funding for innovative energy storage projects, and successfully led the turnaround of a generating facility facing significant challenges.
"His leadership helped strengthen reliability, improve efficiency, and position the utility for a more sustainable future," the PUD said.
Earlier in his career, Forrest served at Grant County PUD in Washington, contributing to key infrastructure and compliance initiatives. He also brings hands-on engineering and project management experience from his early career, along with service in the United States Air Force.
Forrest describes his leadership philosophy as transforming uncertainty into opportunity through authentic engagement. He is passionate about developing others and creating organizational cultures where employees are empowered to grow into leaders, aligning individual growth with organizational mission and building long-term, sustainable success, the PUD said.
"A strong advocate for public power, Forrest believes in the mission of community-owned utilities to provide reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy while staying deeply connected to the people they serve. His commitment to governance, transparency, and collaboration mirrors Pacific PUD’s values," the PUD said.
Forrest succeeds Marc Wilson, who is retiring after 32 years of dedicated service to Pacific County PUD.
Under Wilson's leadership, the PUD strengthened its reputation for reliability, low-cost service, and commitment to the community.
Forrest will begin at Pacific PUD this fall, working alongside Wilson to ensure a seamless transition before officially assuming the role of General Manager upon Wilson's retirement on December 6.
“Marc has been instrumental in guiding Pacific PUD for more than three decades, and we are grateful for his leadership and dedication,” said Michelle Layman, President of the PUD Commission. “As we thank him for his years of service, we are excited to welcome Chris, a visionary leader who shares the same mission-driven values and brings the technical expertise, governance experience, and collaborative approach needed to guide Pacific County PUD through its next chapter.”
