Celebrating Matt Price

Cybersecurity Expert Marks 20 Years of Service at Northern Lights

For 2 decades, Matt Price has been a professional troubleshooter, innovator, and pillar of systems expertise at Northern Lights, Inc. This year, as he celebrates 20 years of dedicated service, we take a moment to recognize his journey, the positive changes he’s fostered, and the values that guide his cooperative leadership.

After earning a degree in environmental science from the University of Idaho and consulting for local, state, and federal agencies, Matt began his career with Northern Lights in May 2006 as a geographic information systems administrator. His early work involved modeling the electric grid, supporting outage management, and mapping the service area. These fundamental efforts improved the cooperative’s ability to serve its members efficiently and reliably.

Over the years, Matt’s willingness to “step in and fill the gap” led to expanded responsibilities, eventually becoming manager of information technology in October 2020. In this capacity, he oversees a complex network of applications, sensors, and devices that track more than 1,100 data points across the system and ensures the safety, productivity, and security of the cooperative’s operations.

Matt’s role carries significant responsibility. He is vigilant about cybersecurity, tracking trends in hacking attempts and continually adapting to evolving threats. His priorities include maintaining stability for all cooperative employees, protecting critical systems and sensitive information, and ensuring the safety of the electric grid and the workforce. Matt’s commitment to operational excellence and security helps keep Northern Lights running smoothly.

Matt credits much of his success to the collaborative spirit of Northern Lights.

“You don’t do this work alone,” he says.

He relies on the contributions of dedicated colleagues and service provider partners who share his commitment to service. Matt’s approach balances hard work with intentional efforts to maintain his well-being, drawing inspiration from the local community, the serenity of Lake Pend Oreille, and the beautiful mountain surroundings.

For those considering a similar path, Matt’s advice is to “stay curious and be open to where the work can take you.” He emphasizes the importance of adaptability, lifelong learning, and solving problems. At a cooperative, he says employees are rewarded with job stability, opportunities to wear many hats, and the chance to make a real difference for their neighbors.

Matt’s proudest moments aren’t just the industry recognitions or successful projects, but small, meaningful interactions, such as providing reassurance during storm restorations or helping members through stressful outages. These moments, he says, highlight the direct impact Northern Lights has on people’s lives.

Outside the office, Matt embraces the natural beauty of the region. He enjoys backpacking, whitewater rafting, fly fishing, alpine skiing, and traveling with his wife, Cassie. They appreciate local music, good food, and the vibrant life that Northern Lights’ service area offers.

As Matt marks 20 years with Northern Lights, his journey reflects dedication, growth, and a lasting impact on the cooperative and community it serves. His leadership is a testament to the power of local service, innovation, and heart.