Roger Howe

Director, CCD, BLC, GOLD

Subdivision 1

Roger, a lifelong resident of The Dalles and 1966 graduate of The Dalles High School, has been serving as an elected Representative of Subdivision 1 since January 2017.  After earning his Bachelor of Science degree from Eastern Oregon University in 1972, he honorably served his country during the Vietnam War with the prestigious 101st Airborne Division.  Roger's professional career spans over four decades, during which he was a partner and general insurance agent with Kargl, Elwood, and Geiger, Inc. for 42 years, demonstrating his commitment to the local business community.

Deeply committed to community service, Roger served as a volunteer firefighter and EMT with Wasco Rural Fire Department before becoming an active member of the Wasco County Search and Rescue, where he has served for more than 19 years.  During this time, he also volunteered with Klickitat County Search and Rescue for 10 years, demonstrating his dedication to emergency services across the Columbia Gorge region.  He further exemplified this commitment by volunteering as an Emergency Medical Technician with Mid-Columbia Fire and Rescue.

Roger's expertise in the utility industry is evidenced by his extensive professional development.  He has earned NRECA's prestigious Credentialed Cooperative Director (CCD) designation and Board Leadership Certificate (BLC) through rigorous technical training from the nationally recognized organization.  Most recently, Roger achieved Director Gold status, which requires completion of the CCD and BLC programs plus additional specialized coursework.  This achievement underscores his ongoing commitment to advancing his knowledge and performing his fiduciary duty to the highest standards, directly benefiting the District's customer-owners and other stakeholders.

In recognition of his leadership and expertise, Roger has served as President of the Northern Wasco County PUD Board of Directors and was elected to serve as the 2019 President of The Oregon People's Utility Districts Association (OPUDA).  These roles highlight his active participation in energy-related professional groups and his influence in shaping policies that affect utility districts both locally and across Oregon.  Through his multifaceted involvement in local governance, emergency services, and the energy sector, Roger continues to be a dedicated and invaluable asset to Northern Wasco County PUD, The Dalles community, and beyond.