The Ulteig board of directors has named Ulteig COO Eric Michel as the company's next president and CEO.

Michel will succeed president and CEO Gerry Floden when Floden retires on Jan. 15, 2010. Floden announced his retirement date four years ago and has since worked with the board and leadership team to prepare for his successor.

In 2008, Michel was named Ulteig's chief operating officer. Previously, he served as the Ulteig Fargo office manager and transmission and distribution market leader.

Born and raised in Fargo, Michel earned a bachelor of science degree in electrical and electronics engineering from North Dakota State University, Fargo. He is an electrical engineer and has worked in a variety of roles in the electric utility industry. He joined Ulteig in 1989.