Q&A with NYISO Board Chair, Ave Bie: Problem Solver and Sports Fan
As we celebrate Women's History Month, we interviewed our distinguished board chair, Ave Bie. A tireless power grid advocate and leader, she's a great example of history making at the New York ISO.
Q: How long have you been involved with the New York ISO?
A: I have been on the board since 2009, and became the board chair in April 2018. I was drawn to the New York ISO because it is a leader in its field and sets the standard by which markets and RTOs should aspire to. I was also the chair of the Wisconsin Public Service Commission from 1998 to 2004 where I was a strong advocate for a robust infrastructure to benefit the ultimate consumer.
Q: Where did you go to school and what did you study?
A: I earned a Juris Doctorate from the University of Wisconsin, Madison and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Wisconsin, Eau Claire, where I studied business.
Q: What was your dream job as a kid and why?
A: To work in executive branch of government to participate in formation of policy.
Q: What gives you energy in your daily life?
A: Solving problems and finding solutions.
Q: What would people be surprised to know about you?
A: I'm one of five Ave Marias in my family.
Q: What would you say to your younger self?
A: "Be patient."
Q: Do you have a role model that had a profound effect on you?
A: My parents. Both were wonderful people with kind hearts and had a broader sense of giving back and participating in one's community.
Q: What advice do you have for aspiring leaders?
A: Leadership requires some knowledge of human nature. It requires nurturing high potential while being inspirational.
Q: Are there certain quotes or 'words to live by' that you find particularly meaningful?
A: “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.”— John Quincy Adams
Q: What do you consider one of your proudest moments?
A: The moments I reflect on both of my children and the individuals they have become as young adults.
Q: What are you most looking forward to at the moment?
A: A family trip to Europe to celebrate our daughter graduating from college.
Q: What was one of the most valuable lessons you ever learned?
A: A little kindness may help ease someone else's burden.
Q: What do you do to relax in your time off?
A: I bike and work out, and I enjoy traveling with family. I am also an avid football fan and huge college basketball fan.
Q: We understand you are a Packer fan and that you may have some commemorative jewelry; can you comment on that?
A: The Super Bowl ring weighs more than two pounds so while it’s not the most practical everyday wear, it is a show-stopper when I flash it around for effect. I'm hoping to have at least one for each hand in the future.
Note: Ms. Bie also serves as a member of the Board of Directors for the Green Bay Packers.
