This month, we highlight our accounting department as part of our ongoing series to introduce you to our co-op employees and their roles. 

Julie Wineinger is an accountant who graduated from Eastern Illinois University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting. She has over 26 years of accounting experience, including just over 11 years at EnerStar. 

Our Chief Financial Officer, Kira Taylor joined the team in December 2023. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in  Accounting and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration, both from Eastern Illinois University. Kira has over 20 years of accounting and auditing experience, most recently in a managerial position at Walgreens’ corporate office. She is also a Certified Public Accountant.

Both Julie and Kira are employees and co-op members of EnerStar. “As a member, I appreciate the opportunity to understand the complex process of bringing electricity to the countryside, with its more rural terrain,” said Julie. “I have compassion for our operations department, which works in all kinds of weather, with a 24/7/365 commitment. Rain or shine. Hot or cold. Night or day.”

Kira considers working for EnerStar a dream job and has wanted to work at the co-op for many years. She says the role has exceeded her expectations. “It has been like a breath of fresh air after leaving the corporate world because EnerStar truly cares about their employees,” said Kira. “We are empowered to do what is right for our members each and every day. It truly demonstrates the ‘co-op difference.’”

Thank you, Julie and Kira, for your dedication to our electric co-op!