GCPA Announces Blake Holt as 2025 emPOWERing Young Professionals Award Recipient
The Gulf Coast Power Association is proud to announce that Blake Holt, Director of ERCOT Regulatory Policy at the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA), has been selected as the recipient of the 2025 GCPA emPOWERing Young Professionals Award.
This prestigious annual award recognizes an individual under the age of 40 who has demonstrated exceptional leadership and contributions to the electric power industry while serving as a role model for other young professionals.
Blake's remarkable career trajectory—from his early days in ERCOT's settlements department to his current role as a key voice in regulatory policy—exemplifies the growth, dedication, and leadership qualities we celebrate with this award. His extensive involvement in stakeholder processes, technical expertise, and commitment to developing others in the industry make him a deserving recipient of this recognition.
"Blake's journey from the ERCOT settlements department to becoming a key voice in regulatory policy demonstrates the kind of growth and leadership we seek to recognize with this award," said Beth Garza, President of GCPA. "His contributions to critical market design initiatives, combined with his commitment to developing other professionals, make him a truly deserving recipient."
Blake will be officially presented with the emPOWERing Young Professionals Award at GCPA's 40th Annual Fall Conference, taking place September 29-October 1, 2025, at the AT&T Conference Center in Austin, Texas. During the conference, we will also recognize all of this year's exceptional nominees for their outstanding contributions to our industry.
The Fall Conference is the largest electric power conference for the ERCOT/Gulf Coast region and provides an excellent opportunity to celebrate the achievements of young professionals who are shaping the future of our industry.
About the emPOWERing Young Professionals Award: This annual award recognizes individuals under 40 who actively participate in the electric power industry and contribute to the success of their employer, the electric power market, the development of other industry professionals, and provide leadership for projects or activities within the electric power profession.