Erik Hatlestad

Erik Hatlestad is a lifelong resident of rural, western Minnesota who grew up on a family farm with a commitment to the cooperative movement. For the last 12 years Erik has been working on the clean energy transition at rural electric cooperatives at an organization called CURE. During that time his work has led to historic investments in rural electrification through the New ERA and PACE programs passed in the Inflation Reduction Act. In 2024 Erik served as an advisor to the Rural Utility Service helping to develop the USDA’s first Community Benefit Plan framework.

In addition to his professional work Erik is also a County President for Minnesota Farmers Union and the founder and board chair of the New London Food Cooperative which opened in March 2024.