BOONE, N.C. — Matthew Makdad, P.E., has been named general manager of Appalachian State University’s New River Light and Power (NRLP), effective Feb. 1. Makdad had previously served as the utility’s engineering supervisor since 2017.

In his new role, Makdad is responsible for overseeing the operations of NRLP, ensuring safe and reliable electricity is provided to the nearly 9,000 commercial and residential customers within the public power utility’s territory in and around Boone, including the App State Boone campus. The utility’s infrastructure includes 1,500 transformers and nearly 100 miles of overhead and underground power lines.

Makdad leads a motivated team of highly skilled lineworkers, technicians and support staff that includes business officers, customer service representatives, billing, mapping and communications.

“Matt has done an excellent job leading the engineering and technical side of NRLP for many years,” said Nick Katers, App State associate vice chancellor of facilities management. “We are excited to see him now become the general manager. Good things are in store for NRLP, App State and NRLP customers.”

Prior to joining App State in 2017, Makdad served in various engineering leadership roles as an Air Force Civilian at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base for 21 years.

Makdad holds a Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering from Pennsylvania State University and a Master of Business Administration from App State and is a registered North Carolina Professional Engineer — the highest standard of engineering competence.

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About App State's New River Light and Power

For 110 years, New River Light and Power (NRLP) — a nonprofit electric utility operated by Appalachian State University — has provided reliable power to residents of Western North Carolina. The utility currently serves approximately 9,000 residential and commercial customers in and around Boone, including the university. NRLP is dedicated to expanding access to higher education, contributing approximately $650,000 annually to the university’s general scholarship fund. Additionally, the utility awards NRLP scholarships to support graduating Watauga County high school seniors pursuing an App State education, as well as those interested in pursuing a career in linework. NRLP holds the American Public Power Association’s Reliable Public Power Provider and Smart Energy Provider designations, recognizing its commitment to safety, efficiency, renewable energy and environmental stewardship. Learn more about App State’s New River Light and Power at https://nrlp.appstate.edu.

About Appalachian State University

As a premier public institution, Appalachian State University prepares students to lead purposeful lives. App State is one of 17 campuses in the University of North Carolina System, with a national reputation for innovative teaching and opening access to a high-quality, cost-effective education. The university enrolls more than 21,000 students, has a low student-to-faculty ratio and offers more than 150 undergraduate and 80 graduate majors at its Boone and Hickory campuses and through App State Online. Learn more at https://www.appstate.edu.