Background:  Stephen Vail has been a cooperative member since 1983.  Steve earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Agriculture Economics from Purdue University and his Masters in Organizational Development from Ball State University.  He is currently Owner/Operator of ETL Group/J & D Vail Inc.  For 19 years, Steve worked at Hancock Regional Hospital in various administrative positions and 11 years as a Senior Loan Officer for Farm Credit System.   Steve’s extensive finance background as well as training in lean process improvement methodologies have served him well on the NineStar Board of Directors. Steve currently is a County Commissioner appointee to the Hancock County Redevelopment Commission and is a 31 year member of the Rotary Club of Greenfield.   Additionally, he recently completed a 6 year term on the National Rural Utilities Finance Corporation (CFC) Board.  He also served on the Indiana Electric Cooperatives Board for 8 years.  Steve and his wife Shelley reside in Greenfield.

Candidate Statement:  The service territory of NineStar Connect is poised for tremendous growth over the next few years. Given that we are a community-based organization, we are committed to building and maintaining infrastructure that elevates the quality of place and quality of life in our larger community.  Growing up and living in Hancock County my entire life, I have always had a passion for serving in roles that move our community forward in positive ways.  Strong leadership and an eye to the future has positioned NineStar Connect to be a trusted and respected voice in how our future opportunities are both recognized and then acted on in a way that honors the history of our community as well as seizes upon the benefits that growth brings.  I want to be part of this continued community conversation and believe that my experiences and skillsets can add value to those efforts.