Ridge Utilities is community-owned and community-driven. Our Board of Directors brings a unique business perspective to the governance of the organization. Our Bylaws require that at least two members of the Board be active members of the Village of Stirling Council to represent the interests of our largest shareholder. In addition, at least three members of the Board (which can include the Councillors previously mentioned) must be current residents of the Village of Stirling. It is our goal to have one Director to represent our Marketing Associates as key partners. All Directors must demonstrate strong business acumen, a focus on results and the ability to provide both leadership and oversight to help deliver our business strategy.

Kevin Nelson is the current Board Chair of Ridge Utilities and has served on the Board since its inception. Kevin is one of the co-owners and co-managers of Nelson Family Ranches. Nelson Family Ranches is a 6th generation family farm with a diverse range of operations in southern Alberta but a focus on cattle, grain, hay and gravel businesses. Kevin previously served on the Council of the Village of Stirling and as Deputy Mayor from 2017 to 2021.

Gary Bikman is a councilor in the Village of Stirling. He was a Member of the Legislative Assembly, served as mayor and councilor in the Village several terms. Gary owned and was president of Speedy Heavy Hauling for many years, was a business consultant and taught Management Skills at the University of Lethbridge and Life Skills at Lethbridge College. He is retired.

Matthew Foss is the Corporate Secretary of Ridge Utilities and has been a member of the Board since its inception. Matt is currently serving his second term on the Village of Stirling Council having been first elected in 2017. Matt is a home appraiser with previous experience in law enforcement and in the trades as a journeyman electrician.

Jason Edwards is the owner of Stirling Truck and Tractor as well as a number of other small businesses. Well know for his entrepreneurial approach and driver for results, Jason is a former Mayor of the Village of Stirling having served his community on Council from 2007 to 2017.

Phil Wright is the General Manager of the Milk River Cable Club and former member of the Council of the Town of Milk River. The Milk River Cable Club is a member of the Ridge Utilities Marketing Associate Program and Phil helps to ensure the perspective of marketing associates to the Board. Phil has a deep understanding of broadband solutions and strategies as he works to bring internet access to rural communities across southern Alberta.

Mike Warkentin is the Director of Special Projects and Stakeholder Relations for P&H Milling Group, a division of Parrish & Heimbecker, Limited. Mike oversees a national portfolio of government relations in all jurisdictions that P&H operates. Mike brings considerable project management and government relations experience from his time in the not-for-profit and private sectors.